R444 – Joint incision and drainage
OHIP Radiology Code — MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
Performs an incision and drainage of a knee joint. This procedure is listed under the Knee sub-heading within the Musculoskeletal System Surgical Procedures section. The fee is payable for the surgeon (suffix A), assistant (suffix B), and anaesthetist (suffix C). The fees for the assistant and anaesthetist are calculated based on basic units plus time units as defined in the Schedule. See page of the Schedule.
When to Use
- Use R444 for the surgical incision and drainage of a knee joint to treat septic arthritis or a significant joint abscess.
- Use R444 when performing a formal open surgical drainage; do not use this code for simple needle aspiration of the knee, which is billed under different diagnostic or therapeutic injection codes.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing R444 alongside a diagnostic arthroscopy is often flagged; ensure the clinical documentation clearly supports that a distinct, medically necessary incision and drainage was performed beyond the scope of the arthroscopic procedure.
- Attempting to bill a second surgical assistant for R444 will result in automatic rejection, as it is not on the pre-approved list for second assistants and requires prior medical consultant authorization.
Billing Tips
- If the procedure is performed on an emergency basis after hours, ensure you append the appropriate E409 or E410 premium to the R444 claim to capture the 50% or 75% increase respectively.
Effective: April 1, 2026
N. Musculoskeletal System Surgical Procedures
MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Surgical
Musculoskeletal System Surgical Procedures
Ready to bill this code?
SnapBill makes OHIP billing simple — auto-filled codes, validation, and batch submission.