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Z137
Z137 – Percutaneous inflation of first tissue expander
OHIP Psychiatric Code — INTEGUMENTARY SYSTEM SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
Percutaneous inflation of the first tissue expander. This procedure is a component of tissue expansion reconstruction, where a balloon-like expander previously placed under the skin is gradually filled with saline to stretch the skin over time. The fee for Z137 covers the first expander inflation, with E541 used for subsequent expanders in the same session.
When to Use
- Use Z137 for the initial percutaneous saline injection into a tissue expander to facilitate gradual skin stretching.
- Use Z137 when performing the first inflation session of a multi-stage tissue expansion reconstruction procedure.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing Z137 multiple times for the same expander in a single session is incorrect; use E541 for additional expanders only.
- Attempting to bill Z137 alongside a consultation or assessment code on the same day is generally disallowed unless the assessment is for a separate, unrelated clinical issue.
- Failing to document the specific number of expanders inflated, which leads to under-billing when E541 should have been applied.
Billing Tips
- Always append E541 to your claim if you are inflating more than one expander during the same patient visit, up to a maximum of three units.
- Ensure the procedure is clearly identified as a surgical component of reconstruction to avoid rejection when billed in conjunction with other plastic surgery codes.
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