E671 – Re-operation involving open heart procedures - following previous sternotomy
OHIP Surgical Assists Code — CARDIOVASCULAR SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
Re-operation involving open heart procedures - following previous sternotomy. This fee is payable to the surgeon as E671A and is typically claimed in addition to the primary open-heart procedure code. The note 'Asst: add' indicates that an assistant's service is also recognized and payable, though likely calculated based on the primary surgical procedure performed. Note: This service is only payable for re-operations performed more than one month after the original operation.
When to Use
- Claim E671 as an add-on to the primary open-heart procedure code (e.g., C100 series) when performing a re-sternotomy on a patient who underwent a previous sternotomy more than 30 days prior.
- Use this code specifically for the increased complexity and time associated with re-entry through a previously scarred sternum, distinct from the primary surgical procedure fee.
Common Pitfalls
- Claiming E671 for procedures performed within one month of the initial surgery, which will trigger an automatic rejection as it fails the mandatory 30-day interval requirement.
- Confusing E671 with E670; ensure E671 is used for re-operations involving open-heart procedures specifically following a sternotomy, whereas other re-operation codes may apply to different surgical access points.
Billing Tips
- Always link E671 to the primary open-heart procedure code on the same claim to ensure the Ministry recognizes the procedural context and validates the re-operation status.
- If the re-operation is non-elective and commences during after-hours periods (E409 or E410), apply the relevant percentage premium to the combined fee of the primary procedure and E671.
Effective: April 1, 2025
Q. Cardiovascular Surgical Procedures
CARDIOVASCULAR SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Surgical
Cardiovascular Surgical Procedures
More than one month after original operation.
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