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R707
R707 – Surgical drainage of pericardial effusion for cardiac tamponade (Open/VATS)
OHIP Radiology Code · Schedule of Benefits
Surgical drainage of pericardial effusion for cardiac tamponade, by open or video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) approach
When to Use
- Use R707 when performing an urgent surgical drainage via VATS or open thoracotomy specifically for hemodynamically unstable cardiac tamponade.
- Select R707 over Z401 when the clinical requirement necessitates a surgical window or VATS approach rather than a percutaneous needle aspiration.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing R707 alongside Z401, R748, or R749 will result in automatic rejection as these procedures are considered mutually exclusive.
- Submitting R707 for elective drainage of a stable, non-tamponade pericardial effusion is an audit risk, as the code strictly requires evidence of cardiac tamponade and clinical instability.
- Failing to document the specific surgical approach (Open or VATS) can lead to claim denial during post-payment review.
Billing Tips
- Apply after-hours premiums E409 or E410 to the R707 fee if the emergency procedure occurs outside of standard operating hours to maximize the procedural reimbursement.
- Ensure the operative report clearly links the procedure to the diagnosis of cardiac tamponade to satisfy the specific clinical requirements of the code.
Provider Fee$600.00
Surgical Assistant Fee$167.83
Anaesthetist Fee$207.48
Non-Anaesthetist Fee$207.48
Effective: April 1, 2026
Service Type
Cardiovascular Surgical Procedures
Code Classes
Surgery
Evidence of cardiac tamponade and clinical instability
Open or VATS approach
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