J151 – Ultrasound compression of groin pseudoaneurysm
OHIP Cardio-Thoracic Surgery Code — DIAGNOSTIC ULTRASOUND · Schedule of Benefits
Ultrasound compression of groin pseudoaneurysm is a therapeutic procedure billed per quarter hour. This service involves using ultrasonic guidance to apply targeted compression to a pseudoaneurysm, typically in the groin area, to promote thrombosis and closure. As a time-based service, per , the start and end times must be documented in the patient's medical record for the service to be eligible for payment.
When to Use
- Use J151 when performing ultrasound-guided manual compression specifically to induce thrombosis in a post-catheterization groin pseudoaneurysm.
- Select J151 over diagnostic ultrasound codes like J138 or J161 when the primary intent and action is the therapeutic intervention of compression rather than diagnostic imaging.
Common Pitfalls
- Failing to document exact start and end times in the chart will result in automatic rejection, as this is a time-based procedure under GP7.
- Billing J151 alongside diagnostic ultrasound codes for the same anatomical site during the same encounter is often flagged as unbundling unless distinct diagnostic necessity is documented.
Billing Tips
- Since J151 is billed per quarter hour, ensure your documentation clearly reflects the total duration of active compression to justify multiple units if the procedure extends beyond 15 minutes.
Effective: April 1, 2025
G. Diagnostic Ultrasound
DIAGNOSTIC ULTRASOUND
Procedure
Diagnostic Ultrasound, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures
For time-based services, the physician must record on the patient's permanent medical record or chart the time when the insured service started and ended. If the patient's permanent medical record or chart does not include this required information, the service is not eligible for payment.
Ready to bill this code?
SnapBill makes OHIP billing simple — auto-filled codes, validation, and batch submission.