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Z844
Z844 – Diagnostic Paracentesis
OHIP Psychiatric Code — OCULAR SURGICAL PROCEDURES · Schedule of Benefits
Diagnostic Paracentesis for: 1) suspected intraocular infection; 2) intraocular inflammation / uveitis; or 3) suspected cancer involving the intraocular structures or fluids.
When to Use
- Use Z844 when performing a diagnostic tap to obtain aqueous or vitreous samples specifically for microbiological culture or PCR to investigate suspected intraocular infection.
- Use Z844 for the collection of intraocular fluid samples to perform cytology or flow cytometry in cases of suspected intraocular malignancy, such as primary intraocular lymphoma.
- Use Z844 when obtaining samples to assist in the diagnosis of non-infectious uveitis where standard clinical examination is insufficient to determine the etiology.
Common Pitfalls
- Billing Z844 on the same day as Z851, E186, E187, or E149 will result in an automatic rejection as these are mutually exclusive surgical procedures.
- Failure to document the specific clinical indication (infection, inflammation, or suspected cancer) in the operative report increases the risk of recovery during a post-payment audit.
Billing Tips
- Ensure that any applicable age-based premiums are applied to the Z844 fee if the patient meets the specific age criteria, as this is a surgical procedure code.
- If the procedure is performed on an emergency basis after hours, ensure you verify eligibility for E409 or E410 to maximize the procedural fee.
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