Congenital chordee
ICD-10 Q54.4 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of congenital chordee.
Congenital chordee is a condition characterized by a downward curvature of the penis due to fibrous tissue or abnormal development of the penile shaft. It is often associated with hypospadias, where the urethral opening is located on the underside of the penis instead of at the tip. This malformation can lead to difficulties with urination and sexual function later in life. The severity of chordee can vary, and it may be present at birth or develop as the child grows. In many cases, surgical intervention is required to correct the curvature and associated anomalies. Accurate diagnosis and coding are essential, as chordee can be part of a spectrum of congenital malformations affecting the genital organs, including cryptorchidism (undescended testicles), ambiguous genitalia, and uterine malformations in females. Proper documentation of associated conditions and the specific nature of the chordee is crucial for effective treatment planning and coding.
Detailed clinical notes on the child's development, physical examination findings, and any associated conditions.
Evaluation of a newborn with suspected hypospadias and chordee, follow-up visits post-surgery.
Consideration of the child's age and developmental milestones when assessing the impact of congenital conditions.
Family history, genetic testing results, and any syndromic associations with congenital anomalies.
Genetic counseling for families with a history of congenital malformations, evaluation of syndromic conditions.
Understanding the genetic basis of congenital conditions and their implications for family planning.
Performed in cases of significant curvature affecting function.
Detailed operative report and pre-operative assessment.
Pediatric urologists typically perform these procedures.
Accurate coding of congenital chordee is crucial for appropriate treatment planning, reimbursement, and tracking of congenital anomalies in pediatric populations. It ensures that patients receive the necessary surgical interventions and follow-up care.