What is OHIP billing code N517?

N517 is "Anterior spinal arthrodesis with instrumentation - Thoracic - One disc level", an OHIP Otolaryngology code from the Ontario Schedule of Benefits (Physician Services).

How much does N517 pay?

The current OHIP fee for N517 is $1224.00, effective 2025-04-01, per the Ontario Schedule of Benefits.

How do I bill N517 to OHIP?

N517 is submitted through OHIP's MCEDT claims system, either directly or via billing software. SnapBill validates N517 claims against the Schedule of Benefits rules before submission.

What codes are related to N517?

Codes related to N517 in the Schedule of Benefits include N516, N518, N559, N580, E366, E375.

All codes

N517

N517 – Anterior spinal arthrodesis with instrumentation - Thoracic - One disc level

OHIP Otolaryngology Code — SPINAL SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits

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This procedure involves an anterior fusion of one thoracic disc level with the use of instrumentation, and does not include decompression. The surgical fee for N517 is inclusive of the thoracotomy approach. For fusion of each additional thoracic disc level during the same operation, see add-on code E366. When the thoracotomy is performed by a separate surgeon, use code N518 instead.

When to Use

Use N517 for a primary anterior thoracic arthrodesis at a single level when the surgeon performs the thoracotomy approach themselves.
Use N517 in conjunction with E366 when extending the fusion to a second or third thoracic level during the same operative session.
Use N517 when the procedure is a repeat fusion, ensuring the E375 premium is added to the claim for the 30% increase.

Common Pitfalls

Billing N517 and N518 together is a common error; N518 is strictly for when a separate surgeon performs the thoracotomy approach.
Attempting to bill a separate thoracotomy fee is prohibited, as the N517 fee is inclusive of the approach when performed by the primary surgeon.
Failing to document the specific thoracic level fused can lead to audit discrepancies when claiming multiple levels via E366.

Billing Tips

Always append the E375 premium code to N517 if the surgery is a revision or repeat fusion to capture the 30% fee adjustment.
Ensure that if a second surgical assistant is required, you have pre-authorization and a letter of justification on file to avoid automatic rejection of the assistant's claim.

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Provider Fee$1,224.00

Surgical Assistant Fee$112.59

Anaesthetist Fee$201.37

Non-Anaesthetist Fee$201.37

Effective: April 1, 2025

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