N293 – Nerve transfer - minor (sensory/cutaneous nerve)
OHIP Otolaryngology Code — NEUROLOGICAL SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
Nerve transfer of a minor nerve, specifically a sensory or cutaneous nerve. This is a surgical procedure with fees payable for the surgeon (suffix A), assistant (suffix B), and anaesthetist (suffix C). The assistant and anaesthetist fees are calculated based on basic units plus time units. See for basic units and - for detailed fee calculation rules. This procedure may be eligible for percentage-based add-ons such as E906 (use of operating microscope) or E925 (repeat procedure or delayed repair).
When to Use
- Use N293 for the transfer of a sensory or cutaneous nerve, such as a sural nerve graft used for sensory reconstruction, which is distinct from the motor-focused procedures found in N282 or N283.
- Select N293 when performing a secondary sensory nerve repair or transfer that does not involve major nerve trunks, ensuring it is not billed alongside more comprehensive nerve repair codes like N290 or N291.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing N293 in conjunction with major nerve repair codes (e.g., N290 or N291) for the same anatomical site, which will trigger a rejection for unbundling.
- Failing to document the use of an operating microscope in the operative report, which is a mandatory requirement to successfully claim the E906 40% premium.
- Applying the E925 30% repeat procedure premium without verifying if the initial procedure was a different N-prefix code or if the 4-week delay threshold for acute injury has been strictly met.
Billing Tips
- Always append the E906 premium code to your claim if an operating microscope was utilized, as this is a high-value add-on specifically permitted for N293.
- Ensure the operative report explicitly states the sensory or cutaneous nature of the nerve transferred to justify the use of N293 over higher-valued motor nerve codes.
Effective: April 1, 2025
X. Neurological Surgical Procedures
NEUROLOGICAL SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Surgical
Neurological Surgical Procedures
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