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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ53.1

Q53.1

Billable

Undescended testicle, unilateral

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/11/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 Q53.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of undescended testicle, unilateral.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Undescended testicle, or cryptorchidism, is a congenital condition where one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum before birth. In the case of unilateral undescended testicle, only one testicle is affected. This condition is often diagnosed during a physical examination shortly after birth. The undescended testicle may be located in the inguinal canal or may not be palpable at all. If left untreated, it can lead to complications such as infertility, testicular cancer, and hernias. The exact cause of cryptorchidism is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The condition is more common in premature infants and those with low birth weight. Treatment typically involves surgical intervention, known as orchidopexy, to reposition the testicle into the scrotum, ideally performed before the child reaches 18 months of age to minimize risks of complications.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between unilateral and bilateral conditions
  • Understanding associated conditions such as hypospadias or hernias
  • Documentation of surgical interventions and follow-up care
  • Variability in clinical presentation and timing of diagnosis

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the condition's unilateral nature
  • Failure to document associated congenital anomalies
  • Incorrect coding of surgical procedures related to the condition
  • Lack of follow-up documentation post-surgery

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed physical examination findings, including location of the undescended testicle and any associated anomalies.

Common Clinical Scenarios

A newborn presenting with an undescended testicle during a routine examination or a follow-up visit after initial diagnosis.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of the child's age and timing of surgical intervention is crucial for accurate coding.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Family history of congenital conditions, genetic counseling notes, and any chromosomal analysis results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Assessment of a child with undescended testicle and family history of similar conditions or other congenital anomalies.

Billing Considerations

Genetic syndromes associated with cryptorchidism should be documented to support coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q53.1 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding congenital conditions, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's unilateral nature and any associated anomalies

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q53.1 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

54640CPT Code

Orchidopexy

Clinical Scenario

Surgical correction of undescended testicle in a pediatric patient.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Pediatric surgical documentation must include pre-operative and post-operative assessments.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital conditions, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital conditions, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Pediatrics - Cryptorchidism

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Pediatrics - Cryptorchidism

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of coding Q53.1 accurately?

Accurate coding of Q53.1 is crucial for proper treatment planning, reimbursement, and tracking of congenital conditions. It ensures that patients receive appropriate care and follow-up, and it helps in understanding the prevalence and outcomes of cryptorchidism.