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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesN13.722

N13.722

Billable

Vesicoureteral-reflux with reflux nephropathy without hydroureter, bilateral

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

Code Description

ICD-10 N13.722 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of vesicoureteral-reflux with reflux nephropathy without hydroureter, bilateral.

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 backward flow can lead to recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) and can cause damage to the kidneys, known as reflux nephropathy. In cases where reflux nephropathy occurs without hydroureter, the ureters remain normal in size, but the kidneys may suffer from inflammation and scarring due to the recurrent infections. This condition is particularly concerning in children, as it can lead to chronic kidney disease if not managed properly. Symptoms may include flank pain, fever, and signs of UTI. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as a voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) and renal ultrasound. Management often includes antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent UTIs, and in some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct the anatomical defect causing the reflux.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of urinary anatomy and physiology
  • Differentiation from other types of nephropathy
  • Need for accurate documentation of reflux severity
  • Potential for co-morbid conditions affecting coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of reflux severity
  • Failure to document recurrent UTIs
  • Misclassification of nephropathy type
  • Lack of imaging study results in the medical record

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of urinary symptoms, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Children presenting with recurrent UTIs, abdominal pain, or fever.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of growth and development impacts due to kidney function.

Urology

Documentation Requirements

Surgical notes, imaging studies, and follow-up care documentation.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Adults with history of VUR undergoing surgical correction.

Billing Considerations

Need for detailed surgical documentation and post-operative care.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use N13.722 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's severity and any associated complications
  • Include details from imaging studies and clinical assessments to support the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use N13.722 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

52000CPT Code

Cystourethroscopy

Clinical Scenario

Used for evaluation of VUR and potential surgical intervention.

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative report and pre-operative assessment.

Specialty Considerations

Urology specialists must document findings and treatment plans.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like vesicoureteral reflux, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. This specificity aids in better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like vesicoureteral reflux, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. This specificity aids in better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like vesicoureteral reflux, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. This specificity aids in better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation.

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 is the primary cause of vesicoureteral reflux?

The primary cause of vesicoureteral reflux is a congenital defect in the valve mechanism at the junction of the ureters and bladder, which fails to prevent urine from flowing back into the ureters.