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E734
E734 – Laparotomy - multiple and/or with resection
OHIP Surgical Assists Code — DIGESTIVE SYSTEM SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
This is an add-on code to be claimed in addition to S321 (Laparotomy for acute trauma). It is applicable when the surgery involves the repair of multiple intestinal sites or includes resection of a portion of the intestine. This fee is not payable as a standalone procedure.
When to Use
- Use E734 when performing a bowel resection (e.g., small bowel or colonic resection) during an emergency laparotomy for trauma already billed under S321.
- Use E734 when multiple intestinal sites require repair (e.g., multiple enterotomies or serosal tears) during the same trauma laparotomy session as S321.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing E734 as a standalone procedure will result in automatic rejection; it must be submitted on the same claim as S321.
- Attempting to use E734 for non-trauma related intestinal resections is incorrect and will lead to audit recovery; ensure the primary procedure is S321.
- Failing to document the specific number of repair sites or the extent of the resection in the operative report creates a high risk for claim reversal during post-payment review.
Billing Tips
- Ensure that the total claim includes S321 as the primary procedure to trigger the eligibility of the E734 add-on fee.
- If the trauma meets the criteria for E420 (Trauma Premium), ensure the Injury Severity Score (ISS) is clearly documented in the chart to support the combined claim.
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