Urology Coding Alert
Sometimes 'Close' Is the Best You Can Do in ICD-10
Question: I have been asked by our pediatric urologist: “what is the proper ICD-10 code for undescended testicle not abdominal or ectopic” or stated as “high in the inguinal canal.” Researching ICD-10 I found information pointed to Q55.0. Some of the physicians had a problem with the language absence and aplasia. They felt it was a contradistinction to palpable undescended testis. The unspecified code Q53.10 may not be an option. The information for Q55.0 stated “One testicle not descending into the scrotum during normal embryonic or fetal development. This is also known as an undescended testis or cryptorchidism…the testicle most commonly found in the inguinal canal.” Is this the correct code or do you have another suggestion?
Georgia Subscriber
Answer: This is a good question with no real clear-cut answer.Unfortunately, the only ICD-10 diagnostic code that is close is the unspecified ICD-10 code Q53.10 (Unspecified undescended testicle, unilateral) as you stated. Experts recommend you use this ICD-10 diagnostic code for your clinical scenario.
Related Articles
Urology Coding Alert
- Preventive Medicine:
Sort Out PSA Test Codes Based on Screening vs. Diagnostic Purpose
Hint: The diagnosis can point you in the right direction. Prostate specific antigen (PSA) screenings [...] - Clarification:
Compare Your ICD-10 Options for Stent Removal
Recently a reader contacted Urology Coding Alert and questioned the ICD-10 diagnosis we chose for [...] - You Be the Coder:
Different States Means Add Modifiers
Question: My physicians go to our office in a neighboring state to see patients. There, [...] - 2016 Fee Schedule:
Chart Out Your 2016 Expected Reimbursement By Comparing Year-Over-Year RVUs
Use this handy table to prepare for next year.
Every new year brings new [...] - HIPAA Compliance:
Knowing What Qualifies as a Breach is Key to Avoidance
Fines range from $100 to $1,500,000 so strive for compliance. Often small mistakes won’t make [...] - Reader Question:
Take Advantage of the Units Area of Your Claim Form
Question: My physician had to help a general surgeon that was doing an abdominoperineal resection [...] - Reader Question:
Dilation + Replacement = Complicated
Question: We are looking for a CPT® code for cystoscopy and dilatation of suprapubic urostomy [...] - Reader Question:
Sometimes 'Close' Is the Best You Can Do in ICD-10
Question: I have been asked by our pediatric urologist: “what is the proper ICD-10 code [...]
