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ICD-10 Coding for Phimosis(N47.1, N47.0)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Phimosis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Tight foreskinNon-retractable foreskin

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Phimosis

N47-N48Primary Range

Disorders of the prepuce

This range includes all ICD-10 codes related to disorders of the prepuce, including phimosis.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
N47.1PhimosisUse for pathological phimosis with scarring or BXO.
  • Documented scarring or fibrosis
  • BXO confirmed by biopsy
N47.0Adherent prepuce, newbornUse for physiological phimosis in infants without scarring.
  • Age <5 years
  • No scarring present

Clinical Decision Support

Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for phimosis

Essential facts and insights about Phimosis

The ICD-10 code for pathological phimosis is N47.1, while physiological phimosis in newborns is coded as N47.0.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for phimosis

Phimosis
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of scarring or BXO confirmed by biopsy

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed description of foreskin condition and any associated symptoms

Applicable To

  • Pathological phimosis
  • Phimosis with scarring

Excludes

  • Adherent prepuce, newborn (N47.0)
  • Paraphimosis (N47.2)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documented scarring or fibrosis
  • BXO confirmed by biopsy

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly coding physiological phimosis as N47.1

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies scarring or BXO for accurate coding.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Balanoposthitis

N47.6
Use if inflammation of the glans and foreskin coexists with phimosis.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Adherent prepuce, newborn

N47.0
Use for physiological phimosis in infants without scarring.

Paraphimosis

N47.2
Use for retracted foreskin that cannot be returned to its normal position.

Phimosis

N47.1
Use for pathological phimosis with scarring or BXO.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Phimosis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code N47.1.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Use specific terms like 'scarring' or 'fibrosis'., Document associated symptoms and findings.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data reporting.

Mitigation Strategy

Use N47.0 for physiological phimosis in infants.

Impact

Using N47.1 for physiological phimosis can trigger audits.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure accurate documentation of phimosis type.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Phimosis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Phimosis

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Phimosis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Adult with pathological phimosis

Specialty: Urology

Required Elements

  • History of foreskin issues
  • Physical exam findings
  • Biopsy results if applicable
  • Treatment plan

Example Documentation

Patient presents with non-retractable foreskin and fibrotic ring. Biopsy confirms BXO. Plan: Circumcision.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Phimosis, treat with circumcision.
Good Documentation Example
Non-retractable foreskin with fibrotic ring (3mm); BXO on biopsy. Circumcision scheduled.
Explanation
The good example provides specific clinical findings and a confirmed diagnosis, supporting the treatment plan.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Phimosis? Ask your questions below.

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