R546 – Plantar fascia release (Steindler)
OHIP Radiology Code — MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
Plantar fascia release (Steindler) is a surgical procedure categorized under foot and ankle reconstruction. The service includes all specific elements for a surgical procedure as outlined in the General Preamble, which includes the pre-operative evaluation, the surgical procedure itself, and post-operative care. This also includes the common elements of all insured services as detailed in -, such as obtaining consent, maintaining medical records, and arranging follow-up.
When to Use
- Use R546 for the surgical release of the plantar fascia when performed as a distinct procedure for chronic plantar fasciitis refractory to conservative management.
- Use R546 when performing a Steindler stripping procedure for the correction of pes cavus deformities.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing R546 in addition to a more comprehensive foot reconstruction code that already includes plantar fascia release as an integral component, which will trigger a rejection for unbundling.
- Failing to document the specific surgical technique (Steindler) in the operative report, which is required to justify the use of this specific code over other foot surgery codes.
- Attempting to bill a separate office visit or consultation on the same day as the procedure, as the global surgical fee for R546 includes all pre-operative and post-operative care.
Billing Tips
- If the procedure is performed on both feet during the same operative session, ensure you append the appropriate bilateral modifier to receive the correct percentage of the fee.
- Always verify if the patient qualifies for age-based premiums (e.g., AGE_PREMIUM_UNDER_16Y) to maximize the procedural fee, as these are automatically calculated based on the patient's date of birth.
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.