E617 – Pleural tent
OHIP Surgical Assists Code — RESPIRATORY SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
An additional amount is payable when a pleural tent is created during a lung excision procedure. This is applicable to preceding M prefix excision codes. A pleural tent is a surgical technique used to manage persistent air leaks or reduce the size of the pleural space after lung resection. The fee for this service is added to the fee for the primary procedure.
When to Use
- Claim E617 when performing a pleural tent to reduce dead space following a lobectomy (e.g., M155) or segmentectomy (e.g., M156).
- Use this code specifically when the surgical technique is employed to mitigate persistent air leaks during lung resection procedures.
Common Pitfalls
- Claiming E617 without an associated primary M-prefix lung excision code will result in an automatic rejection.
- Failing to document the specific creation of the pleural tent in the operative report is a significant audit risk, as it is an add-on procedure requiring distinct clinical justification.
Billing Tips
- Ensure E617 is submitted on the same claim as the primary M-prefix excision code to satisfy the requirement for an associated primary procedure.
Effective: April 1, 2025
P. Respiratory Surgical Procedures
RESPIRATORY SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Other
Respiratory Surgical Procedures, Other Premiums (including After Hours Procedure Premiums)
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