Urethral false passage

This code represents an iatrogenic or traumatic perforation of the urethral wall, creating a channel outside the true urethral lumen. This abnormal tract typically occurs during instrumentation of the urethra, such as catheterization or cystoscopy. It can lead to urinary extravasation, infection, and difficulty with subsequent urethral procedures.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates the presence of a urethral false passage, often identified during or after a urological procedure. Supporting documentation would include operative reports, procedure notes, or imaging studies (e.g., urethrography) confirming the false passage. It is typically an acute complication.

• Differentiate from urethral stricture (598.0x) or other urethral obstructions, as a false passage is a distinct anatomical anomaly.
• Always sequence this code after the primary reason for the procedure or the underlying condition that led to the instrumentation, if applicable.
• Look for documentation of the cause (e.g., difficult catheterization, previous trauma) to determine if an external cause code (E-code) is also warranted.