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E729
E729 – Cholecystectomy with highly selective vagotomy
OHIP Surgical Assists Code — DIGESTIVE SYSTEM SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
This is an add-on code to be billed with S287 (Cholecystectomy) when a highly selective vagotomy is performed during the same operative session. The fee is in addition to the fee for the primary procedure.
When to Use
- Use E729 only when a highly selective vagotomy is performed as a secondary, distinct procedure during the same operative session as a cholecystectomy (S287).
- This code is appropriate for cases where the vagotomy is specifically indicated for peptic ulcer disease management alongside the gallbladder removal.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing E729 without a corresponding S287 claim will result in an automatic rejection as it is strictly an add-on code.
- Do not bill E729 if the vagotomy performed is a truncal or selective vagotomy, as those require different codes (e.g., E728 or E721).
- Attempting to bill E729 as a standalone procedure is a common audit trigger; it must always be linked to the primary cholecystectomy.
Billing Tips
- Ensure the operative report explicitly details the highly selective nature of the vagotomy to support the use of E729 over other vagotomy codes.
- Apply relevant age premiums or after-hours premiums (E409/E410) to the total procedural fee, as E729 is eligible for these enhancements when the primary S287 qualifies.
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