Agenesis of ureter
ICD-10 Q62.4 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of agenesis of ureter.
Agenesis of the ureter is a congenital malformation characterized by the complete absence of one or both ureters, which are the tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder. This condition can occur in isolation or as part of a syndrome involving other urinary tract anomalies. In cases of unilateral agenesis, the remaining kidney may undergo compensatory hypertrophy, while bilateral agenesis can lead to severe renal dysfunction or failure, often resulting in oligohydramnios during pregnancy. The diagnosis is typically made through imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI, which can reveal the absence of the ureter(s) and assess the status of the kidneys. Management may involve surgical intervention, particularly in cases of bilateral agenesis, where renal replacement therapy may be necessary. Understanding the implications of ureteral agenesis is crucial for pediatricians and urologists, as it can significantly impact urinary function and overall health.
Detailed documentation of the patient's history, physical examination findings, and imaging results is essential. Pediatric coders should ensure that all congenital anomalies are documented.
Common scenarios include prenatal diagnosis via ultrasound, postnatal evaluation of urinary tract anomalies, and management of associated renal conditions.
Pediatric coders must be aware of the developmental implications of ureteral agenesis and its potential impact on growth and kidney function.
Genetic counseling notes and family history should be documented to assess for syndromic associations. Genetic testing results may also be relevant.
Scenarios may include evaluating patients with multiple congenital anomalies for genetic syndromes and discussing recurrence risks with families.
Genetic coders should consider the potential for chromosomal abnormalities that may accompany congenital urinary tract malformations.
Used in cases where surgical correction of ureteral anomalies is necessary.
Surgical notes detailing the procedure and indication for surgery.
Urology specialists should ensure that all relevant pre-operative assessments are documented.
Unilateral agenesis refers to the absence of one ureter, while bilateral agenesis indicates that both ureters are absent. The clinical implications and management strategies differ significantly, with bilateral agenesis often leading to more severe renal complications.
