G487 – Chemodenervation injection - first major nerve and/or its branches (repeat or additional procedure within 30 days)
OHIP Diagnostic & Therapeutic Procedures Code — DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
This service is for a repeat or additional chemodenervation injection of a single peripheral motor nerve using non-anaesthetic chemical agents like phenol or ethyl alcohol to reduce focal spasticity. It specifically covers the first major nerve and/or its branches treated during a session that occurs within 30 days of a previous chemodenervation procedure (e.g., G485, G486). The procedure may include electromyography (EMG) guidance for the injection(s).
When to Use
- Use G487 when performing a repeat phenol or alcohol injection for focal spasticity within 30 days of an initial G485 or G486 procedure.
- Select this code for follow-up chemodenervation sessions where the clinical goal is to address residual spasticity in the same nerve distribution previously treated.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing G487 alongside a botulinum toxin injection for the same muscle will result in a payment of nil, as the service is considered inclusive.
- Submitting G487 when using local anaesthetic agents instead of neurolytic agents like phenol or alcohol will trigger a rejection; use the Nerve Block section codes instead.
Billing Tips
- Ensure the clinical record clearly distinguishes the 30-day window from the initial G485/G486 procedure to justify the repeat service and avoid audit flags.
Effective: April 1, 2025
J. Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures
DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC PROCEDURES
Procedure
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures
1. Use nerve block listings under Nerve Blocks sub-section if anaesthetic agents are used instead of phenol or alcohol or similar non-anaesthetic chemical agents.
2. Chemodenervation injection into same muscle same day as botulinum toxin is an insured service payable at nil.
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