Post-traumatic urethral stricture
ICD-10 N35.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of post-traumatic urethral stricture.
Post-traumatic urethral stricture refers to a narrowing of the urethra that occurs as a result of trauma, which may be due to direct injury, surgical procedures, or other mechanical forces. This condition can lead to significant urinary symptoms, including difficulty urinating, urinary retention, and recurrent urinary tract infections. The stricture may develop as scar tissue forms in the urethra following the initial injury, leading to a reduction in the urethral lumen. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of patient history, physical examination, and imaging studies such as retrograde urethrograms or cystoscopy. Treatment options vary based on the severity of the stricture and may include dilation, urethrotomy, or surgical reconstruction. It is essential for healthcare providers to document the cause of the stricture accurately, as this can influence treatment decisions and coding accuracy.
Detailed history of the traumatic event, imaging results, and treatment plans.
Patients presenting with urinary retention following pelvic trauma or post-surgical complications.
Urologists must ensure that the cause of the stricture is clearly documented to support the diagnosis.
Immediate assessment of trauma, including mechanism of injury and initial management.
Patients with acute urinary retention following trauma or surgical procedures.
Emergency physicians should document the patient's vital signs and any interventions performed.
Used for patients with diagnosed urethral stricture.
Document the findings during cystoscopy and the extent of dilation performed.
Urologists should ensure that the procedure is clearly linked to the diagnosis of post-traumatic urethral stricture.
The primary cause is trauma to the urethra, which can occur from accidents, surgical procedures, or other mechanical injuries.