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R661
R661 – Burn debridement and excision - dorsum, palm
OHIP Radiology Code — INTEGUMENTARY SYSTEM SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
Burn debridement and excision for the dorsum or palm of the hand. This service is performed outside of an operating room and is billed 'each', meaning it can be claimed for each site (dorsum, palm) treated.
When to Use
- Use R661 for the formal debridement and excision of burn tissue on the palm or dorsum of the hand when performed in an office or clinic setting.
- Claim R661 separately for each distinct anatomical site (e.g., one unit for the palm and one unit for the dorsum) if both are treated during the same encounter.
Common Pitfalls
- Do not bill R661 if the procedure is performed in an operating room; surgical procedures in an OR must be billed using the appropriate Schedule of Benefits surgical fee codes.
- Avoid billing R661 for simple wound cleansing or dressing changes, as it specifically requires the surgical act of debridement and excision of burn tissue.
- Do not confuse R661 with R660 (burn dressing) or R662 (burn debridement of other body sites); ensure the anatomical location matches the code definition.
Billing Tips
- Since R661 is billed 'each', ensure your clinical notes clearly delineate the work performed on the palm versus the dorsum to support multiple units.
- Always apply the appropriate age-based premium if the patient is under 16, as R661 is a surgical procedure code eligible for these percentage increases.
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