Other hydronephrosis

This code represents the dilation of the renal pelvis and calyces due to an obstruction of urine flow, when the specific type of hydronephrosis is not otherwise specified or falls into another category. It indicates a backup of urine within the kidney, leading to swelling and potential damage, stemming from various underlying causes.

Use this code when documentation indicates hydronephrosis that is not congenital, obstructive, or associated with ureteral stricture, calculus, or infection, and the specific type is not further defined. This code is appropriate for cases where the cause of the hydronephrosis is known but doesn't fit a more specific N13 subcategory, or when the exact type of hydronephrosis is simply documented as "other."

• Always attempt to code to a more specific N13 subcategory if the documentation allows (e.g., N13.1 for hydronephrosis with ureteral stricture).
• Ensure the documentation clearly states "other hydronephrosis" or describes a type not covered by more specific codes within N13.
• Code the underlying cause of the hydronephrosis, if known, as a secondary diagnosis.