S789 – Thyroidectomy - subtotal
OHIP Urology Code — ENDOCRINE SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
Subtotal thyroidectomy is the surgical removal of a part of the thyroid gland, leaving a small portion of thyroid tissue. This procedure is listed under the Endocrine Surgical Procedures section of the Schedule of Benefits.
When to Use
- Use S789 for subtotal thyroidectomy where a remnant of thyroid tissue is intentionally preserved, distinguishing it from the total thyroidectomy procedure S788.
- Use S789 when performing a partial resection of the thyroid gland for benign conditions or specific endocrine pathologies that do not require total gland removal.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing S789 alongside S788 for the same gland is a common audit trigger; ensure the procedure performed matches the specific surgical intent documented in the operative report.
- Attempting to bill for a second surgical assistant without prior authorization from a medical consultant will result in automatic rejection, as S789 is not on the pre-approved list for multiple assistants.
Billing Tips
- Ensure the operative report explicitly details the amount of thyroid tissue left behind to justify the use of S789 over a total thyroidectomy (S788) or lobectomy (S790).
Effective: April 1, 2025
W. Endocrine Surgical Procedures
ENDOCRINE SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Surgical
Endocrine Surgical Procedures
All insured services must be documented in appropriate records that establish that: 1. an insured service was provided; 2. the service for which the account is submitted is the service that was rendered; and 3. the service was medically necessary.
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