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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesN13.2

N13.2

Billable

Hydronephrosis with renal and ureteral calculous obstruction

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/18/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 N13.2 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of hydronephrosis with renal and ureteral calculous obstruction.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Hydronephrosis with renal and ureteral calculous obstruction is a condition characterized by the dilation of the renal pelvis and calyces due to the accumulation of urine, which occurs when there is an obstruction in the urinary tract, typically caused by kidney stones (calculi). This obstruction can lead to increased pressure within the renal system, resulting in potential damage to renal parenchyma and impaired kidney function. The condition may be associated with pyelonephritis, an infection of the kidney, or interstitial nephritis, which is inflammation of the kidney's interstitial tissue. Patients may present with flank pain, hematuria, and urinary tract infections (UTIs). Drug-induced nephropathy can also complicate the clinical picture, particularly in patients taking nephrotoxic medications. Management often involves addressing the underlying obstruction, which may require surgical intervention, and treating any associated infections with appropriate antibiotics. Close monitoring of renal function is essential to prevent long-term complications.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between obstructive and non-obstructive hydronephrosis
  • Identifying the presence of calculi and their location
  • Documenting associated conditions like pyelonephritis or interstitial nephritis
  • Understanding the implications of drug-induced nephropathy

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the obstruction's cause
  • Failure to document associated infections or complications
  • Misclassification of hydronephrosis type
  • Inconsistent coding of related procedures

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Urology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed imaging reports, surgical notes, and lab results indicating the presence of calculi and hydronephrosis.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with flank pain, hematuria, or recurrent UTIs due to obstructive uropathy.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the obstruction's location and any interventions performed.

Nephrology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive renal function tests, imaging studies, and history of drug use that may contribute to nephropathy.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with chronic kidney disease exacerbated by hydronephrosis or drug-induced nephropathy.

Billing Considerations

Document renal function trends and any changes in medication that may affect kidney health.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use N13.2 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, N13
  • 2 should be used when hydronephrosis is specifically due to calculous obstruction
  • Coders must ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and that any associated conditions are also coded appropriately

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use N13.2 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

52332CPT Code

Cystourethroscopy with ureteral stent placement

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases of obstructive hydronephrosis to relieve obstruction.

Documentation Requirements

Document indication for stenting and any imaging findings.

Specialty Considerations

Urology specialists should ensure that the procedure is clearly linked to the diagnosis.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of hydronephrosis, enabling better tracking of conditions and outcomes. N13.2 provides a clear distinction for cases involving calculous obstruction, which aids in clinical management and research.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of hydronephrosis, enabling better tracking of conditions and outcomes. N13.2 provides a clear distinction for cases involving calculous obstruction, which aids in clinical management and research.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of hydronephrosis, enabling better tracking of conditions and outcomes. N13.2 provides a clear distinction for cases involving calculous obstruction, which aids in clinical management and research.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common causes of hydronephrosis?

Common causes include kidney stones, tumors, strictures, and congenital abnormalities that obstruct urine flow.

How is hydronephrosis diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scans, along with clinical evaluation of symptoms.

What is the treatment for hydronephrosis with calculous obstruction?

Treatment often involves relieving the obstruction, which may require surgical intervention, and managing any associated infections with antibiotics.