Stricture or kinking of ureter

This code signifies an abnormal narrowing (stricture) or acute bend (kinking) within the ureter, the tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder. These anatomical abnormalities can impede urine flow, potentially leading to hydronephrosis, infection, or kidney damage.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of ureteral stricture or kinking, often identified through imaging studies such as CT scans, MRI, or intravenous pyelogram (IVP). This code is appropriate for both congenital and acquired forms of these conditions.

• Differentiate between stricture/kinking and other ureteral obstructions (e.g., calculus, tumor), which have distinct codes.
• Specify laterality (left, right, bilateral) if documented, although ICD-9-CM 593.3 does not allow for laterality.
• Consider sequencing this code as a primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if it's a co-morbidity or complication of another condition.