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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesN13.732

N13.732

Billable

Vesicoureteral-reflux with reflux nephropathy with hydroureter, bilateral

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

Code Description

ICD-10 N13.732 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of vesicoureteral-reflux with reflux nephropathy with hydroureter, bilateral.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is a condition where urine flows backward from the bladder into the ureters and potentially the kidneys. This backward flow can lead to recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) and can cause damage to the kidneys, known as reflux nephropathy. In cases where VUR is severe, it can lead to hydroureter, which is the dilation of the ureters due to the accumulation of urine. When this condition is bilateral, it affects both ureters and can result in significant renal impairment. Patients may present with symptoms of pyelonephritis, which is an infection of the kidney, or interstitial nephritis, characterized by inflammation of the kidney interstitium. Hydronephrosis may also occur, where the kidneys become swollen due to the buildup of urine. Management often includes antibiotic therapy to prevent UTIs, and in some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct the reflux. The complexity of this condition arises from the interplay of multiple factors, including the risk of drug-induced nephropathy from prolonged antibiotic use and the need for careful monitoring of renal function.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Multiple conditions involved (VUR, reflux nephropathy, hydroureter)
  • Potential for overlapping symptoms with other renal conditions
  • Need for comprehensive documentation of clinical findings
  • Variability in treatment approaches and outcomes

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms and clinical findings
  • Failure to specify bilateral involvement
  • Misclassification of related conditions (e.g., pyelonephritis vs. interstitial nephritis)
  • Lack of clear treatment plans or follow-up documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Urology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed notes on the patient's history of UTIs, imaging studies, and any surgical interventions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with recurrent UTIs, renal impairment, or complications from VUR.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the severity of reflux and any surgical corrections performed.

Nephrology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive renal function tests, imaging results, and treatment plans for managing nephropathy.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with chronic kidney disease secondary to reflux nephropathy.

Billing Considerations

Document any drug-induced nephropathy due to antibiotic use and monitor renal function closely.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use N13.732 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the clinical scenario
  • Include details on the bilateral nature of the condition and any associated complications
  • Ensure that all relevant clinical findings are documented to support the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use N13.732 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

CPT 52332CPT Code

Cystourethroscopy with injection of bulking agent

Clinical Scenario

Used in cases of severe VUR requiring intervention.

Documentation Requirements

Document indications for the procedure and any findings during cystoscopy.

Specialty Considerations

Urology specialists should ensure proper coding based on the findings.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like vesicoureteral reflux, enabling better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation. The granularity of ICD-10 codes helps in understanding the complexities of conditions like N13.732.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like vesicoureteral reflux, enabling better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation. The granularity of ICD-10 codes helps in understanding the complexities of conditions like N13.732.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like vesicoureteral reflux, enabling better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation. The granularity of ICD-10 codes helps in understanding the complexities of conditions like N13.732.

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 significance of coding N13.732 accurately?

Accurate coding of N13.732 is crucial for proper reimbursement, tracking of patient outcomes, and ensuring that patients receive appropriate care for their complex renal conditions.