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G349
G349 – Oesophageal tamponade (Blakemore bag) - insertion
OHIP Diagnostic & Therapeutic Procedures Code — DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
This service covers the insertion of an oesophageal tamponade device (e.g., a Sengstaken-Blakemore bag) as a therapeutic measure. It is typically performed in an emergency setting to control severe, acute bleeding from oesophageal or gastric varices. This service is listed in the Schedule as a major invasive procedure eligible for after-hours premiums.
When to Use
- Use G349 for the emergency insertion of a Sengstaken-Blakemore or Minnesota tube to provide mechanical tamponade for life-threatening upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage from varices.
- Use this code when the procedure is performed as a life-saving intervention in the Emergency Department or ICU, distinct from standard nasogastric tube placement.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing G349 without an accompanying assessment code (e.g., A007 or emergency visit code) is a common error, as the procedure code alone does not capture the clinical evaluation required for the patient.
- Incorrectly applying E409 or E410 when the physician is an Emergency Department physician, which will trigger a rejection; ED physicians must use E412 or E413 with an 'H' prefix claim.
Billing Tips
- Always pair G349 with the appropriate Special Visit Premium (e.g., K990) if the physician was called in specifically for this emergency, ensuring the assessment portion is claimed with an A-prefix code.
- Ensure the procedural time is clearly documented to support the use of after-hours premiums (E409-E413), as these are strictly time-dependent based on the start time of the procedure.
Provider Fee$45.30
Effective: April 1, 2025
Category
J. Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures
Subcategory
DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC PROCEDURES
Service Type
Procedure
Code Classes
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures
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