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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesN48.39

N48.39

Billable

Other priapism

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

Code Description

ICD-10 N48.39 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other priapism.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Other priapism refers to a prolonged and often painful erection that is not associated with sexual desire or stimulation. This condition can arise from various underlying causes, including hematological disorders, neurological conditions, or as a side effect of certain medications. In the context of male reproductive health, priapism can lead to significant complications, including erectile dysfunction and penile tissue damage if not treated promptly. The condition may be classified into two main types: ischemic (low-flow) priapism, which is more common and often requires immediate medical intervention, and non-ischemic (high-flow) priapism, which is typically less urgent. The management of priapism may involve pharmacological treatments, aspiration of blood from the corpora cavernosa, or surgical interventions in severe cases. Understanding the etiology and appropriate management of priapism is crucial for healthcare providers, particularly in the fields of urology and andrology, as it can intersect with other male reproductive disorders such as hydrocele, orchitis, and male infertility.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of underlying causes leading to priapism.
  • Differentiation between ischemic and non-ischemic priapism.
  • Potential for associated conditions such as hematological disorders.
  • Need for precise documentation of symptoms and treatment.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the duration and severity of the erection.
  • Failure to specify the underlying cause of priapism.
  • Misclassification of ischemic vs. non-ischemic priapism.
  • Lack of supporting clinical evidence for treatment decisions.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Urology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes on the patient's history, physical examination findings, and treatment interventions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with prolonged erections, often following trauma or hematological issues.

Billing Considerations

Urologists must document the type of priapism and any associated conditions to ensure accurate coding.

Andrology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive assessment of male reproductive health, including fertility evaluations and hormonal assessments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Men experiencing erectile dysfunction or infertility related to priapism.

Billing Considerations

Andrologists should consider the impact of priapism on fertility and document any related treatments.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use N48.39 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, N48
  • 39 should be used when the specific type of priapism is not classified elsewhere
  • Coders must ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and any associated conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use N48.39 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

54050CPT Code

Aspiration of the corpora cavernosa

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases of ischemic priapism to relieve symptoms.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for aspiration and any findings.

Specialty Considerations

Urologists should ensure that the procedure is justified based on clinical presentation.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of priapism, enabling better tracking of the condition and its complications. N48.39 provides a distinct code for cases that do not fit into the more common categories, improving data accuracy and patient management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of priapism, enabling better tracking of the condition and its complications. N48.39 provides a distinct code for cases that do not fit into the more common categories, improving data accuracy and patient management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of priapism, enabling better tracking of the condition and its complications. N48.39 provides a distinct code for cases that do not fit into the more common categories, improving data accuracy and patient management.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Urological Association Guidelines

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Urological Association Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common causes of other priapism?

Common causes include hematological disorders like sickle cell disease, neurological conditions, and certain medications. Identifying the underlying cause is crucial for effective management.