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S796
S796 – Parathyroid exploration or removal requiring splitting of sternum
OHIP Urology Code — ENDOCRINE SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
This service is for the surgical exploration and/or removal of the parathyroids or a parathyroid tumour. It is specifically used when the surgical approach necessitates splitting of the sternum. This fee is for the surgeon's work; anaesthesia and surgical assistance are billed separately based on a system of basic and time units.
When to Use
- Use S796 specifically when the surgical approach to the parathyroid gland or tumour requires a sternotomy, distinguishing it from the standard cervical approach used for S795.
- Apply this code for mediastinal parathyroid explorations where the anatomical location of the gland necessitates splitting the sternum for adequate exposure.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing S796 for a standard neck exploration; if the sternum is not split, the claim will be audited and downgraded to S795.
- Failing to include the E880 add-on fee when parathyroid tissue re-implantation is performed during the same operative session, as this is a separate billable component.
Billing Tips
- Ensure the operative report explicitly documents the sternal split to justify the higher fee compared to S795, as this is the primary clinical requirement for the code.
Provider Fee$687.60
Surgical Assistant Fee$125.10
Anaesthetist Fee$201.37
Non-Anaesthetist Fee$201.37
Effective: April 1, 2025
Since Apr 2004, this fee has increased 0.0% vs 57.0% CPI inflation
Category
W. Endocrine Surgical Procedures
Subcategory
ENDOCRINE SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Service Type
Surgical
Code Classes
Endocrine Surgical Procedures
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