S37.13
Laceration of ureter
Clinical Classification Guidelines
Medical Intelligence & Overview
A laceration of the ureter involves a tear or cut in the tube that carries urine from the kidneys to the bladder. Although uncommon, this injury can occur due to trauma or surgical procedures. Proper diagnosis and management are essential to prevent complications such as urine leakage or infection.
Causes & Symptoms
Clinical Causes: Traumatic injuries from accidents or falls Surgical procedures in the pelvic or abdominal area, especially those involving the kidneys or reproductive organs Penetrating wounds from stab or gunshot injuries Iatrogenic injury during medical interventions such as catheter insertions or ureteroscopies
Key Symptoms: Sudden severe pain in the abdomen or flank Blood in the urine (hematuria) Swelling or tenderness in the affected area Signs of infection such as fever or chills Difficulty or pain during urination Possible leakage of urine if the injury causes an external wound or fistula
Diagnostic & Treatment
Diagnosis Path: Imaging tests such as computed tomography (CT) scan, which provides detailed views of the urinary tract Ultrasound imaging to detect fluid or swelling Intravenous pyelogram (IVP) or retrograde pyelography, where dye is injected to visualize the ureter Physical examination to assess pain, swelling, and signs of trauma Urinalysis to detect blood or signs of infection
Treatment Protocols: Conservative management with close monitoring, especially if the laceration is small and the patient is stable Placement of a ureteral stent to support healing and ensure urine flow Surgical repair, which may involve suturing the torn ureter or reimplanting the ureter into the bladder Drainage of any associated fluid or pus if infection or collection occurs Antibiotic therapy to treat or prevent infection Follow-up imaging to ensure proper healing and function of the ureter
Clinical Advice & FAQs
Billing Guidance
Is S37.13 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, S37.13 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.
Documentation
How do I report S37.13?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Laceration of ureter and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.
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