Congenital hydrocele

This code represents the presence of a congenital hydrocele, which is a collection of serous fluid within the tunica vaginalis of the testis or spermatic cord, present at birth. It results from the incomplete closure of the processus vaginalis, allowing peritoneal fluid to accumulate.

Use this code for newborns or infants diagnosed with a hydrocele that is determined to be congenital in origin. Documentation should clearly state "congenital hydrocele" or describe a hydrocele present since birth due to a patent processus vaginalis.

• Differentiate from acquired hydroceles, which have different ICD-9-CM codes.
• Ensure documentation specifies "congenital" to support this code.
• Consider laterality if specified in the documentation (e.g., unilateral vs. bilateral), although this specific code does not differentiate.