E731 – Gastrotomy - with suture of bleeding peptic ulcer
OHIP Surgical Assists Code — DIGESTIVE SYSTEM SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
This is a surgical add-on procedure for the suture of a bleeding peptic ulcer. It is payable in addition to the fee for the primary procedure. It is listed as an add-on to S116 (Gastrotomy with removal of tumour or foreign body), S133 (Pyloroplasty and vagotomy), and S137 (Pyloroplasty or gastroenterostomy plus vagotomy and cholecystectomy). The assistant fee (E731B), when applicable, is calculated based on basic units plus time units. When performed with S116, the service has 6 base units for the surgical assistant. See - for assistant fee calculation rules.
When to Use
- Use E731 as an add-on when performing a gastrotomy (S116) specifically to suture a bleeding peptic ulcer.
- Use E731 when performing a pyloroplasty and vagotomy (S133 or S137) where a separate gastrotomy is required to address a bleeding peptic ulcer.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing E731 as a standalone procedure; it is strictly an add-on and will be rejected if submitted without a qualifying primary surgical code.
- Failing to include the required surgical assistant units (6 base units) when E731 is performed in conjunction with S116.
Billing Tips
- Ensure E731 is submitted on the same claim as the primary procedure (S116, S133, or S137) to ensure the payment adjustment is processed correctly.
- When calculating assistant fees for E731, verify the base units against the specific primary procedure used, as these can vary by surgical context.
Effective: April 1, 2025
S. Digestive System Surgical Procedures
DIGESTIVE SYSTEM SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Surgical
Digestive System Surgical Procedures
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