Find comprehensive information on kidney stone diagnosis including renal calculi, nephrolithiasis, ICD-10 codes N20.0, N20.1, N20.8, N20.9, medical coding guidelines, clinical documentation improvement, and best practices for healthcare professionals. Learn about symptoms, diagnostic testing, treatment options, and prevention strategies for kidney stones. This resource provides accurate and up-to-date information for physicians, nurses, coders, and other healthcare providers involved in the diagnosis and management of kidney stones.
Also known as
Calculus of kidney and ureter
Kidney stones and related ureteral obstructions.
Other calculus of kidney and ureter
Kidney stones not otherwise specified.
Retention of urine
Inability to completely empty the bladder, sometimes caused by stones.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the kidney stone obstructing the urinary tract?
Yes
Is the obstruction with hydronephrosis?
No
Is there renal colic?
When to use each related code
Description |
---|
Kidney stones (Nephrolithiasis) |
Renal colic |
Ureteral obstruction |
Coding lacks specificity (e.g., N20.0 vs N20.1). Impacts DRG and quality reporting. CDI query needed.
N13. associated hydronephrosis may be overlooked, leading to undercoding and missed CC/MCC capture.
Incorrect coding of stone location (ureter vs. kidney). Impacts medical necessity and payment for procedures.
Patient presents with complaints consistent with renal calculi, including acute flank pain radiating to the groin, hematuria, nausea, and vomiting. Severity of pain fluctuates and is described as sharp, stabbing, or colicky. Onset of symptoms occurred [Date/Time]. Patient reports [Frequency] episodes of similar pain in the past. Medical history significant for [Relevant medical history e.g., hypertension, diabetes, gout, hyperparathyroidism, prior kidney stones]. Family history includes [Family history of kidney stones]. Physical examination reveals [Findings e.g., costovertebral angle tenderness, restlessness]. Urinalysis shows [Urinalysis results e.g., microscopic hematuria, crystals]. Imaging studies, including [Imaging modality e.g., CT scan without contrast, KUB x-ray], confirm the presence of [Number] kidney stone(s) located in the [Location e.g., right ureter, left kidney] measuring [Size] mm. Differential diagnoses include pyelonephritis, appendicitis, and other causes of abdominal pain. Assessment: Nephrolithiasis, likely [Stone type if known e.g., calcium oxalate]. Plan: Pain management with [Medication e.g., NSAIDs, opioids]. Patient is advised to increase fluid intake. Strain all urine. [Treatment plan e.g., Observation, medical expulsive therapy, lithotripsy, ureteroscopy] will be considered based on stone size and location. Follow-up scheduled in [Duration] to assess stone passage and symptom resolution. Patient education provided on kidney stone prevention, including dietary modifications and increased hydration. ICD-10 code: [ICD-10 code e.g., N20.0].