N35.911 Unspecified urethral stricture, male, meatal

Name of the Condition

• Unspecified urethral stricture, male, meatal
• ICD-10 Code: N35.911

Summary

An unspecified urethral stricture, male, meatal refers to a narrowing of the urethra at the meatal opening in males. This condition can obstruct urine flow and may lead to urinary symptoms or complications.

Causes

Urethral stricture can result from scarring due to injury, infection, inflammation, or prior medical procedures involving the urethra. Meatal strictures may develop from trauma, chronic irritation, or recurrent infections.

Risk Factors

• History of urethral injury or surgery
• Recurrent urinary tract infections
• Prolonged catheter use or instrumentation
• Inflammatory conditions affecting the urethra
• Congenital abnormalities

Symptoms

• Difficulty starting urination
• Weak or reduced urine stream
• Pain during urination
• Frequent urge to urinate
• Incomplete bladder emptying

Diagnosis

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, uroflowmetry to assess urine flow, and imaging studies such as retrograde urethrogram or cystoscopy to visualize the stricture. These methods help determine the location and severity of the narrowing.

Treatment Options

• Urethral dilation to temporarily widen the stricture
• Meatal urethrotomy to cut scar tissue
• Surgical reconstruction (urethroplasty) for severe cases
• Intermittent self-catheterization to maintain patency

Prognosis and Follow-Up

With appropriate treatment, patients can experience symptom relief. Regular follow-up may be necessary to monitor for recurrence or complications, especially if the stricture is prone to reformation.

Complications

• Urinary retention
• Recurrent urinary tract infections
• Kidney damage from prolonged obstruction
• Increased risk of bladder stones

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Maintain good hygiene to reduce infection risk
• Avoid trauma to the genital area
• Seek prompt treatment for urethral injuries or infections
• Follow post-procedure care instructions to prevent re-stricture

When to Seek Professional Help

Consult a healthcare provider if you experience persistent urinary symptoms, pain, or difficulty urinating. Immediate care is needed for signs of urinary retention or severe obstruction.

Tips for Medical Coders

Document the location (meatal) and specify that the stricture is unspecified. Include details on clinical presentation, diagnostic methods, and treatment to support code assignment. Ensure documentation aligns with the clinical findings for accurate coding.