N151 – Craniotomy plus excision - infratentorial
OHIP Otolaryngology Code — NEUROLOGICAL SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
Surgical procedure from the Musculoskeletal System section of the OHIP Schedule of Benefits. As a surgical code, it is eligible for payment to the operating surgeon (suffix A), surgical assistant (suffix B), and anaesthetist (suffix C). Fee calculations for assistants and anaesthetists are based on basic units plus time-based units. Various premiums for after-hours, special visits, and patient-specific conditions (e.g., age, trauma) may apply as per the General Preamble.
When to Use
- Use N151 for posterior fossa craniotomies involving the excision of infratentorial lesions, such as cerebellar tumors or brainstem pathologies.
- Select N151 when the surgical approach is specifically infratentorial, distinguishing it from supratentorial procedures coded under N111 or N114.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing N151 alongside other intracranial procedures without checking the General Preamble rules for multiple procedure reductions, which may lead to automatic payment adjustments.
- Failing to append the E921 add-on code when performing a repeat craniotomy, as this is a specific eligible add-on for open intracranial procedures.
Billing Tips
- Ensure the surgical assistant and anaesthetist claims correctly reference the basic units associated with N151 to avoid discrepancies in the time-based unit calculation.
Effective: April 1, 2026
X. Neurological Surgical Procedures
NEUROLOGICAL SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Surgical
Musculoskeletal System Surgical Procedures
All insured services must be documented in appropriate records.
The Act requires that the record establish that: 1. an insured service was provided; 2. the service for which the account is submitted is the service that was rendered; and 3. the service was medically necessary.
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