S043 – Parotid gland - total (with preservation of facial nerve)
OHIP Urology Code — DIGESTIVE SYSTEM SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
A surgical procedure involving the total excision of the parotid gland, with a key component being the identification, dissection, and preservation of the facial nerve throughout the surgery. This service is listed in the Digestive System Surgical Procedures section of the Schedule of Benefits on page . Fees for the surgeon (S043A) are listed, while fees for the assistant (S043B) and anaesthetist (S043C) are calculated based on a combination of basic and time units.
When to Use
- Use S043 when performing a complete parotidectomy where the facial nerve is identified and preserved, distinguishing it from S042 which covers a superficial parotidectomy.
- Select S043 for total excision of the gland in cases of benign neoplasms or chronic inflammatory conditions where the nerve remains intact.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing S043 alongside S047 (Parotid duct excision) is considered a duplicate service, as the duct is included in the total parotidectomy procedure.
- Claiming S043 when only a superficial lobe is removed will trigger an audit; ensure the operative report explicitly confirms total gland excision and nerve preservation.
Billing Tips
- Ensure the operative report clearly documents the dissection of the main trunk and branches of the facial nerve to justify the S043 fee over the lower-valued S042.
Effective: April 1, 2025
S. Digestive System Surgical Procedures
DIGESTIVE SYSTEM SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Surgical
Digestive System Surgical Procedures
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