N35.91
Urethral stricture, unspecified, male
Clinical Classification Guidelines
Medical Intelligence & Overview
Urethral stricture is a condition characterized by the narrowing of the urethra—the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body—in males. This narrowing can obstruct the normal flow of urine, leading to various urinary issues. When the precise cause or site of the narrowing isn’t specified, it is classified under the ICD-10 code N35.91. Recognizing the signs, causes, and available treatments is essential for managing this condition effectively.
Causes & Symptoms
Clinical Causes: Previous infections, especially urethritis caused by sexually transmitted infections such as gonorrhea or chlamydia Urethral trauma or injury from accidents or medical procedures Urethral strictures resulting from surgeries or instrumentation like catheters Inflammatory conditions leading to scar tissue formation Congenital abnormalities present at birth
Key Symptoms: Difficulty starting urination Weak or interrupted urinary stream Frequent urination or the feeling of incomplete bladder emptying Pain or discomfort during urination Urinary retention or episodes where urination is entirely blocked Recurrent urinary tract infections
Diagnostic & Treatment
Diagnosis Path: Urethroscopy, where a tiny camera is inserted into the urethra to visualize the narrowing Retrograde urethrography, an imaging test using contrast dye to identify the site and severity of the stricture Voiding cystourethrography, which assesses the flow of urine and detects obstructions Physical examination to check for external signs or abnormalities Urinalysis to detect infection or blood in the urine
Treatment Protocols: Dilation procedures to gradually widen the narrowed section of the urethra Urethrotomy, a surgical procedure involving incision to open the stricture Urethroplasty, which involves surgical reconstruction of the urethra and is often considered for recurrent or complex strictures Management of underlying infections with antibiotics Preventative measures and follow-up to monitor for recurrence
Clinical Advice & FAQs
Billing Guidance
Is N35.91 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, N35.91 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.
Documentation
How do I report N35.91?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Urethral stricture, unspecified, male and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.
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