Z314 – Cauterization - unilateral
OHIP Psychiatric Code — RESPIRATORY SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
Unilateral cauterization for the treatment of epistaxis (nasal hemorrhage). This service is an Independent Operative Procedure (IOP) as per page . It includes all pre-operative and post-operative care associated with the procedure unless otherwise specified. When performed with a flexible endoscope, E839 may be added. See the Surgical Preamble starting on page for detailed billing rules for IOPs and other surgical procedures.
When to Use
- Use Z314 for unilateral chemical or electrocautery of a bleeding nasal vessel when the procedure is the primary reason for the visit.
- Use Z314 when performing unilateral cauterization to control epistaxis, distinct from nasal packing procedures like Z315 or Z316.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing Z314 alongside a consultation or assessment code on the same day is prohibited by the IOP rules, as the pre-operative assessment is considered included in the procedure fee.
- Attempting to bill Z314 bilaterally as a single unit is incorrect; if both sides are cauterized, you must bill Z314 twice, noting the laterality, as it is strictly a unilateral code.
Billing Tips
- Always append E839 if you utilized a flexible endoscope to visualize the bleeding site, as this is a separate flat-fee add-on.
- Ensure you apply the appropriate age-based percentage premium for patients under 16, as Z314 is explicitly eligible for this adjustment.
Effective: April 1, 2025
P. Respiratory Surgical Procedures
RESPIRATORY SURGICAL PROCEDURES
Surgical
Respiratory Surgical Procedures
This service is listed as an Independent Operative Procedure (IOP) indicated by the 'Z' prefix.
The listed benefit is for a unilateral procedure only.
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