R022 – Scar revision - face or neck - 2.6 cm to 5 cm
OHIP Radiology Code — INTEGUMENTARY SYSTEM SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
This service covers the surgical revision of a scar located on the face or neck, measuring between 2.6 cm and 5.0 cm. The procedure can be performed using any method of closure. This fee code represents the surgeon's fee (claimed with suffix A) and provides the basis for calculating assistant (suffix B) and anaesthetist (suffix C) fees.
When to Use
- Use R022 for the surgical excision and revision of a facial or neck scar measuring exactly 2.6 cm to 5.0 cm in length.
- Select R022 when the procedure involves complex closure techniques, such as Z-plasty or W-plasty, within the specified size range on the face or neck.
- Use R022 instead of R021 when the scar length exceeds 2.5 cm, as R021 is strictly limited to scars 2.5 cm or smaller.
Common Pitfalls
- Claiming R022 for post-infection scarring on the face as a standard fee will result in rejection; this must be submitted as I.C. with a manual assessment request.
- Submitting R022 for scars located on the trunk or extremities is an automatic audit trigger, as these require prior authorization per Appendix D.
- Failing to document the exact length of the scar in the operative note often leads to downgrades to R021 if the length is not clearly supported.
Billing Tips
- When claiming for post-infection facial scarring, explicitly note the comparison to R023 in your submission to facilitate the I.C. assessment process.
- Ensure the measured length is documented as the final excised length, as the Ministry may verify the size against the clinical description of the revision technique.
Effective: April 1, 2025
M. Integumentary System Surgical Procedures
INTEGUMENTARY SYSTEM SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Surgical
Integumentary System Surgical Procedures
For trauma cases, the medical record must list the Injury Severity Score (ISS) to claim the trauma premium (E420).
Authorization is required for all scar revisions in areas other than the face or neck (see Appendix D).
Revision of post-infection scarring of face must be claimed on an “I.C” basis - maximum payable will be as equated to R023.
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