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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesChapter 14: Diseases of the genitourinary systemN29

N29

Billable

Other disorders of kidney and ureter in diseases classified elsewhere

Chapter 14:Diseases of the genitourinary system

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

Code Description

ICD-10 N29 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other disorders of kidney and ureter in diseases classified elsewhere.

Key Diagnostic Point:

N29 encompasses a variety of kidney and ureter disorders that are not classified under specific categories in the ICD-10 system. This includes conditions such as small kidney (renal hypoplasia), ischemic nephropathy, and other specified kidney disorders that arise as complications of systemic diseases. Small kidney refers to a developmental anomaly where the kidney is smaller than normal, potentially leading to renal insufficiency. Ischemic nephropathy occurs due to reduced blood flow to the kidneys, often resulting from vascular diseases, which can lead to chronic kidney disease. Other specified kidney disorders may include conditions like nephrocalcinosis or renal tubular acidosis, which do not fit neatly into other classifications. Accurate coding of N29 requires a thorough understanding of the underlying diseases and their impact on kidney function, as well as careful documentation of the clinical context to ensure appropriate coding and billing.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of underlying conditions leading to kidney disorders
  • Need for precise documentation of associated systemic diseases
  • Differentiation from other specific kidney disorders
  • Potential for overlapping symptoms with other renal codes

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of underlying conditions
  • Misinterpretation of clinical notes leading to incorrect coding
  • Failure to specify the type of kidney disorder
  • Inconsistent coding practices across providers

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Nephrology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes on kidney function tests, imaging studies, and any systemic diseases affecting renal health.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with chronic diseases like diabetes or hypertension presenting with renal complications.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all relevant systemic conditions are documented to support the use of N29.

Urology

Documentation Requirements

Surgical notes, imaging results, and pathology reports that detail any structural abnormalities of the kidney or ureter.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with obstructive uropathy or congenital anomalies of the urinary tract.

Billing Considerations

Document any surgical interventions or treatments that may relate to the kidney disorders.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use N29 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, N29 should be used when the kidney and ureter disorders are a direct result of diseases classified elsewhere
  • Coders must ensure that the primary diagnosis is clearly documented and that N29 is appropriately linked to the underlying condition

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use N29 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

50300CPT Code

Kidney biopsy

Clinical Scenario

Used when a biopsy is performed to assess kidney function or pathology.

Documentation Requirements

Biopsy reports and clinical notes detailing the indication for the procedure.

Specialty Considerations

Nephrologists must ensure that the biopsy is justified based on clinical findings.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of kidney disorders, including those classified under N29. This specificity aids in better tracking of kidney-related health issues and improves the accuracy of healthcare data.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of kidney disorders, including those classified under N29. This specificity aids in better tracking of kidney-related health issues and improves the accuracy of healthcare data.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

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

When should I use N29 instead of a more specific code?

N29 should be used when the kidney disorder is a result of a disease classified elsewhere and no specific code applies. Ensure that the documentation supports this classification.