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N524
N524 – One level - bilateral canal enlargement - unilateral approach
OHIP Otolaryngology Code — SPINAL SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
Surgical procedure of the musculoskeletal system. As a surgical procedure, it is subject to all general rules for surgical procedures outlined in the General Preamble. This includes rules for surgical assistants and anaesthesiologists.
When to Use
- Use N524 when performing a unilateral approach for bilateral decompression of a single spinal level, such as a unilateral laminotomy for bilateral decompression (ULBD).
- Select N524 instead of N511 or N512 when the clinical objective is specifically bilateral canal enlargement through a single-sided surgical window.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing N524 in conjunction with other primary decompression codes like N511 or N512 for the same level is considered unbundling and will result in rejection.
- Failing to document the specific 'unilateral approach' technique can lead to audit scrutiny if the procedure is later reviewed against standard laminectomy codes.
Billing Tips
- Always append E361 when performing decompression at additional levels during the same operative session, ensuring the total level count is clearly delineated in the operative report.
Provider Fee$1,300.25
Surgical Assistant Fee$116.19
Anaesthetist Fee$239.40
Non-Anaesthetist Fee$239.40
Effective: April 1, 2026
Category
Z. Spinal Surgical Procedures
Subcategory
SPINAL SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Service Type
Surgical
Code Classes
Musculoskeletal System Surgical Procedures
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