R789 – Ligation of anterior ethmoidal artery - unilateral
OHIP Radiology Code — RESPIRATORY SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
Decortication of the lung is a surgical procedure to remove a restrictive layer of fibrous tissue (pleural peel) from the surface of the lung, chest wall, and diaphragm. The aim is to allow the lung to re-expand. As per the P:3 listing, this service may be performed with or without thoracoplasty, which is the surgical removal of ribs to collapse a lung cavity. The rules in the surgical preamble (:529 to :536) apply.
When to Use
- Use R789 for the surgical ligation of the anterior ethmoidal artery when performed as a primary unilateral procedure for epistaxis management.
- Select R789 when the procedure is performed in an operating room setting, as it is not an Independent Operative Procedure (Z-code) and carries a 14-day post-operative period.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing R789 alongside subsequent visit codes C122, C123, C142, or C143 during the 14-day post-operative period will result in automatic rejection.
- Attempting to bill for a second surgical assistant without prior authorization from a medical consultant will lead to claim denial, as R789 is not on the pre-approved list for second assistants.
Billing Tips
- Ensure the surgical fee includes all pre-operative hospital visits (1-2 days prior) and post-operative care for 14 days, billing only the specialty-specific subsequent visit fee for the first and second post-op visits.
Effective: April 1, 2025
P. Respiratory Surgical Procedures
RESPIRATORY SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Surgical
Respiratory Surgical Procedures
This service is not listed as a 'Z' code (Independent Operative Procedure), and therefore the general surgical rules for pre- and post-operative care apply as described in the Surgical Preamble.
A second assistant's service is only eligible for payment following authorization by a medical consultant, as this code is not on the pre-approved list for second assistants.
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