E788 – Ureteral meatotomy
OHIP Surgical Assists Code — UROGENITAL AND URINARY SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
This service describes a ureteral meatotomy performed during an endoscopic procedure such as a diagnostic cystoscopy (Z606 or Z607). The procedure involves incising the opening of the ureter where it enters the bladder. It is listed as a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure under the Urogenital and Urinary Surgical Procedures section.
When to Use
- Use E788 when performing a deliberate incision of a stenotic ureteral orifice to facilitate access or resolve obstruction during a cystoscopic procedure.
- Use E788 in conjunction with Z606 or Z607 when the meatotomy is the primary therapeutic intent of the endoscopic session.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing E788 as a standalone procedure without documenting the associated primary cystoscopy (Z606/Z607) will result in a rejection for missing procedural context.
- Confusing E788 with ureteral dilation codes (e.g., E781 or E782); E788 specifically requires an incision (meatotomy) rather than simple mechanical dilation.
- Attempting to bill E788 alongside more comprehensive ureteral surgical codes (e.g., E786 or E787) without clear documentation of distinct, separate surgical sites may trigger an audit for unbundling.
Billing Tips
- Ensure the operative report explicitly describes the incision of the ureteral meatus, as this distinguishes E788 from diagnostic-only cystoscopy codes.
- Apply age-based premiums (e.g., AGE_PREMIUM_UNDER_16Y) to the E788 fee when treating pediatric patients to maximize the claim value.
Effective: April 1, 2025
T. Urogenital and Urinary Surgical Procedures
UROGENITAL AND URINARY SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Surgical
Urogenital and Urinary Surgical Procedures, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures
The performance of the ureteral meatotomy must be documented in the patient's medical record, in addition to the documentation for the primary cystoscopy procedure.
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