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N501
N501 – Vertebrectomy
OHIP Otolaryngology Code — SPINAL SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
Vertebrectomy, listed under code N501, is an anterior spinal decompression surgery performed on the cervical spine. The procedure involves the removal of a vertebral body and the excision of the adjacent intervertebral discs to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots. It is eligible for surgeon (<suffix>A</suffix>), assistant (<suffix>B</suffix>), and anaesthetist (<suffix>C</suffix>) fees. The fee for an additional level of decompression can be claimed using E360.
When to Use
- Use N501 for an anterior cervical vertebrectomy involving the removal of a vertebral body and adjacent discs to decompress the spinal cord.
- Use N501 when performing the primary level of decompression; use E360 for each additional level of decompression performed during the same operative session.
Common Pitfalls
- Do not bill N501 with N569, as N569 represents an anterior cervical decompression by an intra-oral approach and is explicitly restricted.
- Ensure the Injury Severity Score (ISS) is documented in the chart if claiming the E420 trauma premium, as failure to do so is a frequent audit trigger.
Billing Tips
- Always append E360 for every additional level of decompression beyond the first to ensure full compensation for multi-level procedures.
- If the procedure is performed for an acute spinal cord injury, remember to add E383 to the claim to capture the $255.00 premium.
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