Other Hydronephrosis (N13.39)

Name of the Condition

• Common Name: Other Hydronephrosis
• Medical Term: Hydronephrosis (not specified)

Summary

Other Hydronephrosis refers to a condition where one or both kidneys become swollen due to a buildup of urine. This swelling is often due to an obstruction that prevents urine from draining properly from the kidney to the bladder.

Causes

• Obstruction in the urinary tract (e.g., kidney stones, congenital urinary tract malformations)
• Tumors or masses pressing against the urinary pathway
• Ureteral strictures or scarring
• Pregnancy-related changes

Risk Factors

• Previous history of kidney stones
• Structural abnormalities in the urinary tract
• Certain cancers that could cause obstructions
• Family history of urinary tract problems

Symptoms

• Flank or back pain, often severe
• Nausea and vomiting
• Frequent and painful urination
• Incomplete urination or weak urine stream

Diagnosis

• Imaging tests like ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to visualize kidney swelling and locate obstructions
• Urinalysis to detect any infection or abnormality in the urine
• Blood tests to assess kidney function

Treatment Options

• Addressing the obstruction via surgery or insertion of a stent
• Medications to manage symptoms or treat underlying infections
• In severe cases, nephrostomy (drainage of kidney) may be required

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Prognosis largely depends on the underlying cause and promptness of treatment
• Regular follow-up is crucial to ensure no recurrence of obstruction and to monitor kidney function

Complications

• If untreated, can lead to kidney infections or permanent kidney damage
• Potential for hypertension due to prolonged kidney stress

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Staying hydrated to prevent kidney stones
• Regular medical check-ups if there is a history of kidney or urinary problems
• Managing underlying conditions contributing to urinary obstructions

When to Seek Professional Help

• Severe persistent pain in the back or flank
• Difficulty or inability to urinate
• Symptoms of a urinary tract infection or gross hematuria (visible blood in urine)

Additional Resources

• National Kidney Foundation (kidney.org)
• American Urological Association (auanet.org)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the specific cause of hydronephrosis is not detailed before using N13.39 for accurate coding.
• Distinguish between congenital and acquired causes to prevent miscoding.
• Be vigilant about including secondary diagnoses where applicable, such as urinary tract infections or kidney stones, to capture the full clinical picture.