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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesN21.9

N21.9

Billable

Calculus of lower urinary tract, unspecified

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

Code Description

ICD-10 N21.9 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of calculus of lower urinary tract, unspecified.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Calculus of the lower urinary tract refers to the presence of stones or calculi in the bladder or urethra. These stones can form from various substances, including calcium, oxalate, uric acid, and struvite. The formation of these stones, known as urolithiasis, can lead to significant discomfort, urinary obstruction, and potential complications such as urinary tract infections. Symptoms may include hematuria (blood in urine), dysuria (painful urination), and frequent urination. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scans, and laboratory tests to analyze urine composition. Treatment options vary based on the size and location of the stones and may include lithotripsy, which uses shock waves to break up stones, or surgical removal. Dietary modifications, such as increased fluid intake and dietary adjustments to reduce stone-forming substances, are often recommended to prevent recurrence. This code is used when the specific type of calculus is not specified, making it essential for coders to ensure accurate documentation to support the diagnosis.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in stone composition and types
  • Need for precise documentation of symptoms and imaging results
  • Differentiation from other urinary tract conditions
  • Potential for multiple treatment modalities

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms
  • Failure to specify the type of calculus
  • Lack of imaging results in the medical record
  • Inconsistent treatment documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Urology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed imaging reports, treatment plans, and follow-up notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with flank pain, hematuria, or urinary obstruction due to stones.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all imaging and lab results are documented to support the diagnosis.

Primary Care

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive patient history, symptom description, and referrals to specialists.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Initial evaluation of patients with urinary symptoms or recurrent urinary tract infections.

Billing Considerations

Document any dietary recommendations or lifestyle changes suggested to the patient.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use N21.9 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring that the diagnosis is supported by clinical documentation
  • 9 should be used when the specific type of calculus is not identified
  • Ensure to document any related conditions or complications

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use N21.9 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

50590CPT Code

Lithotripsy, extracorporeal shock wave

Clinical Scenario

Used for patients with calculi in the lower urinary tract requiring non-invasive treatment.

Documentation Requirements

Document the size and location of the stone, as well as the number of sessions required.

Specialty Considerations

Urologists should ensure that all pre-operative evaluations are documented.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of urinary tract conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. N21.9 provides a broad category for unspecified lower urinary tract calculi, which can help in capturing cases where specific details are not available.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of urinary tract conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. N21.9 provides a broad category for unspecified lower urinary tract calculi, which can help in capturing cases where specific details are not available.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of urinary tract conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. N21.9 provides a broad category for unspecified lower urinary tract calculi, which can help in capturing cases where specific details are not available.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Urological Association Guidelines

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Urological Association Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I document to support the use of N21.9?

Document the patient's symptoms, imaging results, and any treatments provided. Ensure that the clinical context supports the diagnosis of calculus in the lower urinary tract.