Overflow incontinence

This code represents the involuntary leakage of urine due to an overfilled bladder, often caused by an obstruction or an underactive detrusor muscle. The bladder becomes distended, and pressure exceeds urethral resistance, leading to continuous or intermittent dribbling.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states "overflow incontinence" without further specification of neurogenic or non-neurogenic causes. This condition is frequently seen in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia, urethral strictures, or neurological conditions affecting bladder emptying.

• Do not use this code if the documentation specifies neurogenic overflow incontinence (N31.2).
• Always code the underlying cause of the overflow incontinence if known and documented (e.g., BPH, urethral stricture).
• Distinguish carefully from stress incontinence (N39.3) or urge incontinence (N39.41) as management differs.