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R220
R220 – Incision and drainage - Bone
OHIP Radiology Code — MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
R220 is a surgical procedure for the incision and drainage of bone, specifically located in the foot and ankle. This procedure is listed under the Musculoskeletal System Surgical Procedures section. The service is eligible for payment to the surgeon, as well as an assistant (6 basic units) and an anaesthetist (7 basic units) when required.
When to Use
- Use R220 specifically for the surgical incision and drainage of a bone abscess or osteomyelitis in the foot or ankle.
- Distinguish R220 from R201 or R202, which are typically reserved for soft tissue incision and drainage; R220 requires documented involvement of the bone structure.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing R220 for a simple soft tissue abscess of the foot will lead to audit recovery; ensure the operative report confirms bone involvement or cortical penetration.
- Failure to document the specific bone involved in the foot or ankle can lead to rejection or ambiguity during a post-payment review.
Billing Tips
- If performing a debridement of bone in conjunction with the drainage, ensure the documentation supports the distinct surgical effort to justify both if applicable, though R220 is the primary procedural code for the drainage itself.
- Always verify if the procedure meets the criteria for the E420 trauma premium if performed within 24 hours of an injury, ensuring the Injury Severity Score (ISS) is clearly recorded in the chart.
Provider Fee$262.70
Surgical Assistant Fee$77.46
Anaesthetist Fee$111.72
Non-Anaesthetist Fee$111.72
Effective: April 1, 2026
Category
N. Musculoskeletal System Surgical Procedures
Subcategory
MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Service Type
Surgical
Code Classes
Musculoskeletal System Surgical Procedures
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