N579 – Vertebrectomy (removal of vertebral body and excision of adjacent discs)
OHIP Otolaryngology Code — SPINAL SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
Lumbar - laparotomy/retroperitoneal approach by separate surgeon: Vertebrectomy (removal of vertebral body and excision of adjacent discs). This code is for the spinal surgery component when the approach is performed by a separate surgeon.
When to Use
- Use N579 when performing an anterior lumbar vertebrectomy where a separate surgeon is responsible for the laparotomy or retroperitoneal approach.
- Use N579 specifically for the spinal surgeon's component of the procedure, ensuring the approach surgeon bills their own distinct surgical code.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing N579 alongside the approach code as a single surgeon procedure, which will trigger rejections or audit flags for unbundling.
- Failing to document the Injury Severity Score (ISS) in the medical record when claiming the Trauma Premium (E420), which is a mandatory requirement for this code.
- Attempting to bill N579 for anterior cervical decompression, which is explicitly excluded in favor of other specific codes like N569.
Billing Tips
- Claim E360 as an add-on for each additional level of anterior lumbar decompression performed beyond the primary level covered by N579.
- Ensure that all age-based premiums (e.g., AGE_PREMIUM_UNDER_16Y) are applied correctly to the base fee if the patient meets the specific age criteria.
Effective: April 1, 2025
Z. Spinal Surgical Procedures
SPINAL SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Surgical
Spinal Surgical Procedures
When claiming the Trauma Premium (E420), the medical record must list the Injury Severity Score (ISS).
Medical records must be maintained to support the medical necessity of the service and that the service was rendered as described. See .
For services performed by a medical trainee, specific documentation requirements for supervision must be met. See .
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