Z303 – Removal of laryngeal stent or keel
OHIP Psychiatric Code — RESPIRATORY SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
This service involves the surgical removal of a laryngeal stent or keel. Per the Respiratory Surgical Procedures section of the Schedule, this procedure includes laryngoscopy. As a Z-code, it is designated an Independent Operative Procedure (IOP), which has specific payment rules for pre-operative assessments detailed on page . All standard pre- and post-operative care associated with the surgery is included in the fee, as outlined in the Surgical Preamble.
When to Use
- Use Z303 for the planned removal of a laryngeal stent or keel following successful airway stabilization or healing.
- Use this code when the removal procedure is performed as an Independent Operative Procedure (IOP) in an ambulatory or hospital setting.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing a separate laryngoscopy code (e.g., E001 or similar) is a common error, as Z303 explicitly includes the laryngoscopy in its fee.
- Attempting to bill a full consultation or assessment on the same day as the procedure will result in rejection due to the IOP restriction, which limits you to a minor or partial assessment.
- Failing to document the necessity of a surgical assistant when using M400B will lead to the denial of the assistant's claim, as it is payable only on Independent Consideration.
Billing Tips
- If you require a surgical assistant, you must submit M400B with 6 basic units plus time units and include a letter of medical necessity from the surgeon to justify the assistance.
- Ensure that if this procedure is performed alongside another surgical procedure, you apply the 15% reduction rule if Z303 is not the primary procedure performed.
Effective: April 1, 2025
P. Respiratory Surgical Procedures
RESPIRATORY SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Surgical
Respiratory Surgical Procedures
Patient under 16 years of age for age-based premium eligibility.
Surgical assistant (B suffix) services are payable for this procedure on an Independent Consideration basis. The claim must be submitted using fee code M400B, with 6 basic units (equal to the anaesthesia units) plus time units. A letter from the surgeon explaining why the assistant was required must be submitted with the claim.
Ready to bill this code?
SnapBill makes OHIP billing simple — auto-filled codes, validation, and batch submission.