E161 – Removal of scleral implant
OHIP Surgical Assists Code — OCULAR SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
Removal of a scleral implant is a surgical procedure listed in the Ocular and Aural Surgical Procedures section of the Schedule. The fee for this service covers the work of the operating surgeon (suffix 'A'). When an anaesthesiologist's services are required, they are billed separately (suffix 'C') with 6 base units plus time units. Assistant services are not eligible for payment for this procedure.
When to Use
- Use E161 when performing the surgical removal of a previously placed scleral buckle or implant due to infection, extrusion, or patient discomfort.
- Use this code for the removal of a scleral implant when it is the primary procedure performed during the operative session.
Common Pitfalls
- Attempting to bill a surgical assistant (suffix 'B') for this procedure will result in an automatic rejection, as assistant services are explicitly ineligible.
- Billing E161 in conjunction with other major intraocular procedures without verifying if the Schedule of Benefits considers the services bundled or subject to multiple procedure rules.
Billing Tips
- Ensure the procedure is billed with suffix 'A' for the surgeon; if an anaesthesiologist is present, they must bill their own services separately using suffix 'C' with 6 base units plus time.
Effective: April 1, 2025
Y. Ocular and Aural Surgical Procedures
OCULAR SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Surgical
Ocular and Aural Surgical Procedures
Ready to bill this code?
SnapBill makes OHIP billing simple — auto-filled codes, validation, and batch submission.