ICD Code N20.1

ICD code N20.1 is a medical classification used to denote the presence of a calculus, or stone, in the ureter. The ureter is the duct that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder. This condition is commonly referred to as a ureteral stone or ureterolithiasis and can cause significant pain and urinary complications.

When considering the use of the ICD code for Calculus of ureter, it is essential to evaluate the patient based on specific diagnostic criteria and symptoms. Here is an ordered list of criteria and symptoms to consider:

1. Flank Pain: The patient experiences acute or severe pain in the side and back, typically below the ribs, which may radiate to the lower abdomen and groin.

2. Hematuria: Presence of blood in the urine, which may be visible (gross hematuria) or detected through microscopic examination (microscopic hematuria).

3. Nausea and Vomiting: The patient reports episodes of nausea and may experience vomiting, often accompanying the pain.

4. Urinary Urgency and Frequency: Increased need to urinate frequently, often accompanied by a sense of urgency.

5. Dysuria: Painful or difficult urination, which may occur as the calculus moves through the urinary tract.

6. Imaging Confirmation: Diagnostic imaging, such as a CT scan, ultrasound, or X-ray, confirms the presence of a calculus in the ureter.

7. Absence of Fever: Typically, there is no fever unless there is a concurrent infection, which would require further evaluation.

8. History of Kidney Stones: The patient may have a personal or family history of kidney stones, which can increase the likelihood of ureteral calculi.

9. Physical Examination: Tenderness in the costovertebral angle upon physical examination, indicating possible ureteral involvement.

10. Laboratory Tests: Urinalysis may show crystals, and blood tests may reveal elevated levels of calcium, uric acid, or other substances associated with stone formation.

These criteria and symptoms should be carefully assessed by healthcare providers to determine the appropriate use of the ICD code for Calculus of ureter.

For the ICD code N20.1, which pertains to the calculus of the ureter, the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment include:

1. CPT 52352 - Cystourethroscopy, with ureteroscopy and/or pyeloscopy; with removal or manipulation of calculus (ureteral catheterization is included).

2. CPT 52353 - Cystourethroscopy, with ureteroscopy and/or pyeloscopy; with lithotripsy (ureteral catheterization is included).

3. CPT 52356 - Cystourethroscopy, with ureteroscopy and/or pyeloscopy; with lithotripsy and insertion of indwelling ureteral stent (e.g., Gibbons or double-J type).

4. CPT 50590 - Lithotripsy, extracorporeal shock wave.

5. CPT 50693 - Percutaneous nephrolithotomy or pyelolithotomy, with removal of calculus.

These CPT codes are typically used in procedures aimed at diagnosing, managing, or treating the condition associated with ICD code N20.1. It is important for healthcare providers to select the appropriate CPT code based on the specific procedure performed.

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