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E177
E177 – Fornix reconstruction - with mucous membrane graft
OHIP Surgical Assists Code — OCULAR SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
This service is for the surgical reconstruction of the fornix, the conjunctival fold connecting the eyeball and eyelid, and specifically includes the use of a mucous membrane graft. This service is a component of Ocular and Aural Surgical Procedures for the Orbit. See also E176 for fornix reconstruction without a graft, and E178/E179 for free mucous membrane grafts.
When to Use
- Use E177 when performing a fornix reconstruction that specifically incorporates a mucous membrane graft to address symblepharon or fornix shortening.
- Select E177 instead of E176 when the procedure requires the harvest and placement of a graft, as E176 is restricted to reconstruction without a graft.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing E177 in conjunction with E178 or E179 is a common error; the graft is considered an inclusive component of the E177 procedure.
- Failing to document the specific use of a mucous membrane graft can lead to audit reclassification to the lower-valued E176.
Billing Tips
- Ensure the operative report clearly describes the graft source and placement to justify the E177 fee over the non-graft E176 code.
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