ICD Code N17.9

ICD code N17.9 is used to classify a diagnosis of acute kidney failure when the specific underlying cause is not specified. This code is applied when a patient experiences a sudden loss of kidney function, but the exact reason for this condition has not been determined or documented in the medical records. It is a general code that helps healthcare providers and billing professionals categorize and track cases of acute kidney failure for treatment and reimbursement purposes.

1. Sudden Onset of Symptoms: The patient experiences a rapid decline in kidney function, typically over hours to days, without a clear chronic history.

2. Elevated Serum Creatinine Levels: A significant increase in serum creatinine levels, indicating a reduction in the kidney's ability to filter waste from the blood.

3. Reduced Urine Output: Oliguria, defined as urine output less than 400 mL per day, or anuria, which is the absence of urine production.

4. Fluid Retention: Symptoms such as swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet due to fluid accumulation.

5. Electrolyte Imbalance: Abnormal levels of electrolytes in the blood, such as hyperkalemia (elevated potassium levels) or hyponatremia (low sodium levels).

6. Nausea and Vomiting: Gastrointestinal symptoms that may accompany the sudden decline in kidney function.

7. Fatigue and Weakness: Generalized feelings of tiredness and lack of energy, often due to the buildup of toxins in the body.

8. Confusion or Altered Mental Status: Changes in mental clarity or consciousness, which can occur as a result of toxin accumulation affecting the brain.

9. High Blood Pressure: An increase in blood pressure readings, which can be both a cause and a consequence of acute kidney failure.

10. History of Recent Illness or Injury: Recent events such as severe dehydration, infection, or trauma that could precipitate acute kidney failure.

11. Absence of Chronic Kidney Disease History: No prior diagnosis or evidence of chronic kidney disease, distinguishing the condition as acute rather than chronic.

For the ICD code N17.9, which pertains to acute kidney failure, unspecified, the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment and management include:

1. CPT 99291 - Critical care, evaluation and management of the critically ill or critically injured patient; first 30-74 minutes.

2. CPT 99292 - Each additional 30 minutes of critical care.

3. CPT 90935 - Hemodialysis procedure with single evaluation by a physician or other qualified healthcare professional.

4. CPT 90937 - Hemodialysis procedure requiring repeated evaluations, with or without substantial revision of dialysis prescription.

5. CPT 90945 - Dialysis procedure other than hemodialysis (e.g., peritoneal dialysis, hemofiltration, or other continuous renal replacement therapies), with single evaluation by a physician or other qualified healthcare professional.

6. CPT 90947 - Dialysis procedure other than hemodialysis, requiring repeated evaluations, with or without substantial revision of dialysis prescription.

7. CPT 36556 - Insertion of non-tunneled centrally inserted central venous catheter; age 5 years or older.

8. CPT 36558 - Insertion of tunneled centrally inserted central venous catheter, without subcutaneous port or pump; age 5 years or older.

These CPT codes are commonly associated with the management and treatment of conditions related to acute kidney failure, including procedures and evaluations necessary for patient care. It is important for healthcare providers to select the appropriate CPT codes based on the specific services rendered and the clinical scenario.

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