E379 – 2D stereotactic spinal procedure
OHIP Surgical Assists Code — SPINAL SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
A 2D stereotactic spinal procedure. This service is eligible for payment as a sole procedure, as seen in the 'Posterior Spinal Arthrodesis as Sole Procedure' section (). It is also frequently paid as an add-on service to other major spinal surgeries. When claimed as an add-on, it is listed with the primary procedure, for example: - With posterior spinal arthrodesis following decompression or osteotomy () - With open reduction of spine fracture (N572) or anterior odontoid screw fixation (N573) () - With anterior (N539) or posterior (N540) scoliosis correction ().
When to Use
- Use E379 as an add-on procedure when performing 2D stereotactic guidance during complex spinal surgeries like scoliosis correction (N539, N540) or fracture fixation (N572, N573).
- Claim E379 as a sole procedure only when the specific clinical requirements for stereotactic spinal intervention are met without an associated major spinal surgery.
Common Pitfalls
- Attempting to claim E379 with other spinal codes not explicitly listed as eligible in the Z-section, which will result in automatic rejection.
- Failing to recognize that E379 is restricted when billed with N573, as only E378 or E379 are permitted alongside that specific code per Z10 guidelines.
- Double-billing or incorrectly bundling stereotactic fees when the primary procedure code already includes image guidance in its description.
Billing Tips
- Always verify the primary procedure code's eligibility in the Z-section before appending E379 to ensure it is not considered an inclusive component of the primary surgery.
- Ensure that if you are claiming E420 (Trauma premium) or after-hours premiums (E409, E410), they are applied correctly to the base fee of E379 when the criteria for non-elective or trauma-related surgery are met.
Effective: April 1, 2025
Z. Spinal Surgical Procedures
SPINAL SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Procedure
Spinal Surgical Procedures
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