E303 – Endoscopy from middle ear space
OHIP Surgical Assists Code — AURAL SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
Endoscopic removal of a foreign body from the middle ear space. The '#' prefix indicates that when performed in a hospital or Integrated Community Health Services Centre (ICHSC), the premises, equipment, supplies, and personnel are funded by the facility and not included in the physician fee. See for details.
When to Use
- Use E303 specifically for the endoscopic removal of a foreign body located within the middle ear space, distinct from external auditory canal procedures.
- Select E303 when the procedure requires endoscopic visualization to access the middle ear cavity, differentiating it from Z915 which is typically used for simple external ear foreign body removal.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing E303 for simple external canal foreign body removal is a common audit trigger; ensure the documentation explicitly confirms the foreign body was in the middle ear space.
- Attempting to bill E303 in conjunction with ear debridement codes is prohibited when the debridement is performed solely for access to the middle ear.
- Failing to use the '#' prefix when performing this procedure in a hospital or ICHSC setting will result in a claim rejection or incorrect payment.
Billing Tips
- If the procedure is performed on both ears during the same session, bill E303 with the appropriate bilateral modifier to ensure correct payment for both sides.
- Ensure the operative report clearly describes the use of an endoscope to reach the middle ear, as this is the defining clinical requirement for the E303 fee.
Effective: April 1, 2025
Y. Ocular and Aural Surgical Procedures
AURAL SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Surgical
Ocular and Aural Surgical Procedures
All insured services must be documented in the patient's medical record, establishing that the service was provided, medically necessary, and is the service submitted for payment.
When debridement of ears under microscopy is carried out for access purposes only, no claim should be made for the debridement.
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