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R055
R055 – Preparation of microvascular recipient site for free island flap and subcutaneous flap immediately following ablative surgery
OHIP Radiology Code — INTEGUMENTARY SYSTEM SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
Preparation of microvascular recipient site for free island flap and subcutaneous flap immediately following ablative surgery and when recipient vessels are in site of the ablation.
When to Use
- Use R055 specifically for the preparation of recipient vessels located within the immediate surgical field of an ablative procedure, such as a head and neck cancer resection.
- Use this code when the microvascular recipient site preparation is performed concurrently with the ablative surgery to facilitate a free island flap or subcutaneous flap transfer.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing R055 in isolation without an associated ablative procedure code, as the descriptor explicitly requires the preparation to occur immediately following ablative surgery.
- Failing to apply the 15% reduction rule when the ablative surgeon and the reconstructive surgeon are different individuals, as mandated by the Schedule of Benefits.
- Confusing R055 with general flap preparation codes; R055 is restricted to microvascular recipient site preparation within the ablation site.
Billing Tips
- Ensure the operative report clearly documents the microvascular nature of the recipient site preparation to justify the use of R055 over standard flap preparation codes.
Provider Fee$544.95
Surgical Assistant Fee$125.10
Anaesthetist Fee$154.90
Non-Anaesthetist Fee$154.90
Effective: April 1, 2025
Category
M. Integumentary System Surgical Procedures
Subcategory
INTEGUMENTARY SYSTEM SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Service Type
Surgical
Code Classes
Integumentary System Surgical Procedures
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