L822 – Operative consultation
OHIP Dermatology Code — DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
An intra-operative consultation performed by a pathologist, which includes the examination of tissue and may involve creating and interpreting a frozen section slide to guide the surgical procedure. This service is distinct from post-operative surgical pathology. If an additional frozen section or direct smear is required for the same operative session, L823 can be claimed as an add-on.
When to Use
- Use L822 when you perform an intra-operative assessment of tissue, such as a frozen section, to provide an immediate diagnosis that dictates the surgeon's next steps.
- Use this code when the clinical urgency of the surgical procedure necessitates a real-time pathological evaluation that cannot wait for permanent section processing.
Common Pitfalls
- Do not bill L822 for routine post-operative surgical pathology; those services are covered under the standard surgical pathology fee schedule.
- Avoid billing L822 for the same specimen if the consultation does not involve an intra-operative component, as this will lead to audit scrutiny regarding the necessity of the frozen section.
Billing Tips
- Always append L823 for any additional frozen sections or smears performed during the same operative session to maximize the claim value for complex cases requiring multiple tissue assessments.
Effective: April 1, 2026
J. Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures
DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC PROCEDURES
Diagnostic
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Procedures
All insured services must be documented in the patient's medical record, establishing that the service was provided, is the service submitted for payment, and was medically necessary, as per .
The operative consultation findings, including any from frozen sections, must be documented in the patient's medical record and the pathology report.
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