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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesN36.42

N36.42

Billable

Intrinsic sphincter deficiency (ISD)

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

Code Description

ICD-10 N36.42 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of intrinsic sphincter deficiency (isd).

Key Diagnostic Point:

Intrinsic sphincter deficiency (ISD) is a condition characterized by the inability of the urethral sphincter to maintain urinary continence due to a lack of adequate muscle tone or coordination. This condition often results in involuntary leakage of urine, particularly during activities that increase abdominal pressure, such as coughing, sneezing, or exercising. ISD is commonly seen in women, especially those who have undergone childbirth or pelvic surgery, but it can also occur in men, particularly following prostate surgery. The diagnosis of ISD typically involves a thorough clinical evaluation, including a detailed patient history, physical examination, and possibly urodynamic studies to assess bladder function and sphincter integrity. Treatment options may include pelvic floor exercises, medications, or surgical interventions such as sling procedures or artificial urinary sphincters. Understanding ISD is crucial for effective management of urinary incontinence and improving the quality of life for affected individuals.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating ISD from other types of urinary incontinence
  • Need for comprehensive documentation of symptoms and treatment history
  • Potential overlap with other urinary disorders such as urethritis and stricture
  • Variability in treatment approaches and their documentation

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of patient history and symptoms
  • Failure to document the results of urodynamic studies
  • Misclassification of ISD as other types of incontinence
  • Lack of clarity in treatment plans and follow-up care

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Urology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed urodynamic study results, treatment plans, and follow-up assessments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with urinary incontinence post-prostatectomy or childbirth.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate documentation of the type of incontinence and any surgical history.

Gynecology

Documentation Requirements

History of childbirth, pelvic floor assessments, and any previous surgical interventions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Women experiencing urinary leakage during physical activity or after childbirth.

Billing Considerations

Document the impact of pelvic floor health on urinary function.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use N36.42 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, N36
  • 42 should be used when intrinsic sphincter deficiency is specifically diagnosed
  • It is important to document the clinical findings that support this diagnosis and to differentiate it from other urinary disorders

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use N36.42 When
  • Exclusion criteria include conditions that do not involve sphincter dysfunction

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

51797CPT Code

Urodynamics

Clinical Scenario

Used to assess bladder function in patients suspected of having ISD.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indications for the urodynamic study and the results.

Specialty Considerations

Urologists should ensure that the study is performed in accordance with established protocols.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of urinary disorders, including ISD. This specificity aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation for patients with urinary incontinence.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of urinary disorders, including ISD. This specificity aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation for patients with urinary incontinence.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of urinary disorders, including ISD. This specificity aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation for patients with urinary incontinence.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Urological Association Guidelines

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Urological Association Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions

What is intrinsic sphincter deficiency?

Intrinsic sphincter deficiency (ISD) is a condition where the urethral sphincter cannot maintain urinary continence, leading to involuntary leakage of urine.

How is ISD diagnosed?

ISD is diagnosed through a combination of patient history, physical examination, and urodynamic studies to assess bladder and sphincter function.

What are the treatment options for ISD?

Treatment options for ISD may include pelvic floor exercises, medications, and surgical interventions such as sling procedures or artificial urinary sphincters.