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S445
S445 – Ureterotomy, upper 2/3
OHIP Urology Code — UROGENITAL AND URINARY SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
Ureterotomy, abdominal or vaginal exploratory or for drainage, with removal of calculus, upper 2/3. This procedure is one of the services where a second assistant's services are payable and authorization is not required.
When to Use
- Use S445 for an open surgical ureterotomy specifically targeting the upper two-thirds of the ureter for calculus removal.
- Use this code for exploratory ureterotomy procedures where the primary intent is drainage or stone extraction in the specified anatomical region.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing S445 for lower third ureteral procedures, which should be coded under S446 or relevant lower-tract specific codes.
- Attempting to bill S445 alongside endoscopic procedures like ureteroscopy; S445 is strictly for open surgical approaches.
- Failing to document the specific anatomical location (upper 2/3) which is required to justify the use of S445 over other ureterotomy codes.
Billing Tips
- Since S445 is explicitly designated as a procedure where a second assistant is payable without prior authorization, ensure the second assistant's claim is submitted with the same service date and diagnostic code to avoid processing delays.
- If the procedure is performed after hours, ensure you append the appropriate E409 or E410 premium to the S445 base fee, as these are fully eligible for this surgical code.
Provider Fee$376.80
Surgical Assistant Fee$75.06
Anaesthetist Fee$108.43
Non-Anaesthetist Fee$108.43
Effective: April 1, 2025
Category
T. Urogenital and Urinary Surgical Procedures
Subcategory
UROGENITAL AND URINARY SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Service Type
Surgical
Code Classes
Musculoskeletal System Surgical Procedures
Services where a second assistant's services are payable and authorization is not required.
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