S37.10XS Unspecified injury of ureter, sequela

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Unspecified Injury of Ureter, Sequela (ICD-10-CM Code: S37.10XS)
- Commonly referred to as ureteral injury sequela

#### Summary
An unspecified injury of the ureter refers to damage that occurs to this vital tube connecting the kidneys to the bladder, with the term "sequela" indicating a condition that is a consequence of a previous injury or treatment. 

#### Causes
- Surgical procedures, especially those involving the pelvic organs.
- Trauma to the abdominal or pelvic area.
- Previous injuries or surgical interventions that have resulted in long-term effects.

#### Risk Factors
- Undergoing abdominal or pelvic surgery.
- Participation in contact sports or activities that may result in abdominal injury.
- Previous history of ureteral surgery or injury.

#### Symptoms
- Persistent pain in the flank or abdominal area.
- Hematuria (blood in urine).
- Recurrent urinary tract infections.
- Changes in urinary habits.

#### Diagnosis
- Imaging studies, including ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to assess the structure and function of the ureter.
- Retrograde pyelography to visualize the ureter for any strictures or blockages.

#### Treatment Options
- Surgical repair or reconstruction for functional impairments.
- Stenting to relieve obstructions and facilitate healing.
- Antibiotics for managing any associated infections.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- Prognosis depends on the severity and location of the injury.
- Regular follow-up with a urologist to monitor kidney function and ureteral health.
- Lifelong monitoring may be necessary for some patients to prevent complications.

#### Complications
- Stricture formation leading to obstruction.
- Chronic kidney disease if urine flow is significantly blocked.
- Persistent infections due to urine flow obstruction.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Avoiding activities that risk significant abdominal trauma.
- Regular follow-ups after surgeries to ensure proper healing and function.
- Maintaining hydration to support kidney and urinary health.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Noticeable change in urine output or color.
- Severe abdominal pain or fever, which might indicate an infection.
- Persistent or worsening symptoms after an initial acute injury.

#### Additional Resources
- [American Urological Association](https://www.auanet.org) for information regarding urological injuries and treatments.
- Patient support groups for those with long-term urinary tract issues.

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure the documentation specifies the sequela nature of the injury to accurately code S37.10XS.
- Double-check for additional details about the initial injury or procedures to avoid miscoding.

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