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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesN13.1

N13.1

Billable

Hydronephrosis with ureteral stricture, not elsewhere classified

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

Code Description

ICD-10 N13.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of hydronephrosis with ureteral stricture, not elsewhere classified.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Hydronephrosis with ureteral stricture refers to the dilation of the renal pelvis and calyces due to obstruction of urine flow, typically caused by a stricture in the ureter. This condition can lead to increased pressure within the renal system, potentially resulting in kidney damage if not addressed promptly. The obstruction may arise from various etiologies, including congenital anomalies, tumors, or inflammatory processes. Patients may present with flank pain, hematuria, or urinary tract infections (UTIs). The condition can also be associated with pyelonephritis, which is an infection of the kidney that can occur due to stagnant urine. Interstitial nephritis may develop as a secondary complication due to prolonged obstruction and resultant renal ischemia. Drug-induced nephropathy can also be a concern, particularly if nephrotoxic medications are used in the presence of hydronephrosis. Management often involves addressing the underlying cause of the stricture, which may include surgical intervention, and antibiotic therapy for any associated infections.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between hydronephrosis and other renal conditions
  • Identifying the specific cause of ureteral stricture
  • Documenting associated conditions like pyelonephritis or interstitial nephritis
  • Understanding the implications of drug-induced nephropathy

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the stricture's cause
  • Failure to document associated infections or complications
  • Misclassification of hydronephrosis severity
  • Inconsistent use of related codes for co-existing conditions

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Urology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed imaging reports, surgical notes, and pathology results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with flank pain, recurrent UTIs, or renal failure due to obstruction.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the stricture's location and cause, as well as any interventions performed.

Nephrology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive renal function tests, history of drug use, and infection workup.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with chronic kidney disease exacerbated by hydronephrosis or recurrent pyelonephritis.

Billing Considerations

Document the impact of hydronephrosis on renal function and any nephrotoxic medications used.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use N13.1 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, N13
  • 1 should be used when hydronephrosis is specifically due to a ureteral stricture
  • Coders must ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and that any associated conditions are accurately captured

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use N13.1 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

52332CPT Code

Ureteral stent placement

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases of hydronephrosis due to ureteral stricture.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indication.

Specialty Considerations

Urology specialists should ensure clear documentation of the stricture's characteristics.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of hydronephrosis, enabling better tracking of conditions like ureteral stricture. This specificity aids in improved patient management and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of hydronephrosis, enabling better tracking of conditions like ureteral stricture. This specificity aids in improved patient management and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of hydronephrosis, enabling better tracking of conditions like ureteral stricture. This specificity aids in improved patient management 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 hydronephrosis with ureteral stricture?

The primary cause can vary but often includes congenital anomalies, tumors, or inflammatory processes that lead to obstruction of urine flow.