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R544
R544 – Achilles or tibialis anterior/posterior tenotomy - open
OHIP Radiology Code — MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
An open tenotomy of the Achilles tendon or the tibialis anterior or posterior tendon. This is a surgical procedure involving an incision to access and cut the specified tendon to relieve tension.
When to Use
- Use R544 for open surgical division of the Achilles tendon to correct equinus deformity, specifically when the procedure is performed via an open incision rather than percutaneous methods.
- Use R544 for open tenotomy of the tibialis anterior or posterior tendons when indicated for the correction of foot deformities or spasticity management.
Common Pitfalls
- Do not bill R544 for percutaneous tenotomies, as these may be subject to audit or rejection if the documentation does not support an open surgical approach.
- Avoid billing R544 in conjunction with R555 (Achilles tendon lengthening) for the same tendon during the same session, as this is considered duplicative billing for the same anatomical site.
Billing Tips
- Ensure the operative report explicitly describes an open incision and direct visualization of the tendon to justify the use of R544 over less invasive procedural codes.
- If performing bilateral tenotomies, ensure the claim is submitted with the appropriate bilateral indicator (e.g., 'B') to receive the correct percentage adjustment for the second procedure.
Provider Fee$252.00
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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