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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesN13.70

N13.70

Billable

Vesicoureteral-reflux, unspecified

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

Code Description

ICD-10 N13.70 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of vesicoureteral-reflux, unspecified.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is a condition where urine flows backward from the bladder into the ureters and potentially into the kidneys. This abnormal flow can lead to various complications, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), pyelonephritis, and hydronephrosis. In children, VUR is often diagnosed during evaluations for recurrent UTIs, while in adults, it may be identified incidentally during imaging studies for other conditions. The severity of VUR can vary, and it is classified into grades based on the degree of reflux observed. Unspecified VUR indicates that the specific grade or severity has not been documented. The condition can lead to interstitial nephritis due to recurrent infections and inflammation, and in severe cases, it may result in drug-induced nephropathy if nephrotoxic medications are used inappropriately. Management typically involves antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent UTIs, and in some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct the reflux. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate treatment and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in documentation of reflux severity
  • Potential for associated conditions like pyelonephritis
  • Need for differentiation from other urinary tract anomalies
  • Variability in treatment approaches and follow-up care

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of reflux severity
  • Failure to document associated urinary tract infections
  • Misclassification of VUR as a primary diagnosis when it is secondary
  • Lack of follow-up documentation for treatment outcomes

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of urinary tract infections, imaging studies, and any surgical interventions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Children presenting with recurrent UTIs or renal scarring.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of age-related factors and developmental milestones in documentation.

Urology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive evaluation reports, including imaging and surgical notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Adults with recurrent UTIs or complications from VUR.

Billing Considerations

Documentation of any surgical corrections or interventions performed.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use N13.70 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's severity and any associated complications
  • Include relevant clinical findings and treatment plans in the medical record

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use N13.70 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

CPT 52000CPT Code

Cystourethroscopy

Clinical Scenario

Used for evaluation of VUR in patients with recurrent UTIs.

Documentation Requirements

Document indications for the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Urologists should ensure detailed operative notes are provided.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of vesicoureteral reflux, enabling better tracking of the condition and its complications. This specificity aids in treatment planning and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of vesicoureteral reflux, enabling better tracking of the condition and its complications. This specificity aids in treatment planning and reimbursement processes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Urological Association Guidelines

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Urological Association Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions

What is vesicoureteral reflux?

Vesicoureteral reflux is a condition where urine flows backward from the bladder into the ureters and kidneys, which can lead to infections and kidney damage.

How is vesicoureteral reflux diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as ultrasound or voiding cystourethrogram to assess the reflux and its severity.

What are the treatment options for vesicoureteral reflux?

Treatment may include antibiotic prophylaxis, surgical correction, or observation, depending on the severity of the reflux and associated complications.