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N581
N581 – One disc level
OHIP Otolaryngology Code — SPINAL SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
Posterior spinal arthrodesis as a sole procedure for one lumbar disc level without instrumentation. This surgical procedure involves fusing vertebrae in the lumbar spine from a posterior approach without using plates, screws, or rods. For each additional disc level fused, claim E364.
When to Use
- Use N581 for a posterior lumbar spinal arthrodesis performed as a sole procedure without the use of any instrumentation (plates, screws, or rods) at a single disc level.
- Use N581 as the primary code when performing a multi-level posterior arthrodesis without instrumentation, then append E364 for each additional disc level fused.
Common Pitfalls
- Do not bill N581 if any form of instrumentation is used; this code is strictly for non-instrumented procedures.
- N581 is not payable if the arthrodesis is performed following a decompression procedure; ensure the procedure is documented as a sole procedure.
- Avoid billing N581 for anterior spinal arthrodesis, as this code is specific to the posterior approach.
Billing Tips
- When performing a multi-level fusion, ensure N581 is claimed for the first level and E364 is claimed for each subsequent level to receive the correct total compensation.
- Always verify that the surgical report explicitly states 'no instrumentation' to support the use of N581 over other spinal surgical codes.
Provider Fee$408.00
Surgical Assistant Fee$87.57
Anaesthetist Fee$154.90
Non-Anaesthetist Fee$154.90
Effective: April 1, 2025
Category
Z. Spinal Surgical Procedures
Subcategory
SPINAL SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Service Type
Surgical
Code Classes
Spinal Surgical Procedures
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