S797 – Thymectomy
OHIP Urology Code — ENDOCRINE SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
Thymectomy is the surgical excision of the thymus gland. This service includes all common elements of an insured service (:27, :28) and the specific elements of a surgical procedure, including pre-operative, intra-operative, and post-operative care. This service has fee components for the surgeon (suffix A), surgical assistant (suffix B), and anaesthesiologist (suffix C). A premium (E683) is payable if the thymectomy is performed thorascopically, by video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS), by robotic-assisted surgery, or by uniportal approach.
When to Use
- Use S797 for the definitive surgical excision of the thymus gland, typically indicated for patients with myasthenia gravis or thymoma.
- Use S797 when performing a complete thymectomy, as opposed to S795 or S796 which are reserved for more limited or specific mediastinal procedures.
Common Pitfalls
- Failing to append the E683 premium code when performing the procedure via VATS or robotic-assisted approach, which results in a significant loss of the 35% fee increase.
- Billing S797 in conjunction with other mediastinal exploration codes; S797 is a comprehensive procedure and includes the work of standard surgical access and closure.
Billing Tips
- Ensure the E683 premium is submitted on the same claim as S797 to trigger the 35% increase for minimally invasive approaches.
- For patients under 30 days of age, remember to apply the 30% age-based premium to the A and B suffixes, as this is a distinct entitlement from the surgical fee itself.
Effective: April 1, 2025
W. Endocrine Surgical Procedures
ENDOCRINE SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Surgical
Endocrine Surgical Procedures, Surgical Assistants' Services, Anaesthesiologists' Services
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