Billing code
R268A — Removal Of Internal Fixation Device - Local Anaesthetic
Hardware removal, local anaesthetic
Bill R268 for removing an internal fixation device more than 30 days after insertion, under local anaesthetic.
Watch for: Only for devices removed more than 30 days after insertion; use R267 when a general anaesthetic is needed.
| Provider | Specialist | Assistant | Anaesthetist | Non-anaesthetist |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $54.85 | $0.00 | $77.46 | $95.76 | $95.76 |
- Code
- R268A
- Description
- Removal Of Internal Fixation Device - Local Anaesthetic
- FHO+ basket
- Not in the FHO+ base rate basket (Schedule 2 or 2B).
- Effective date
- Apr 1, 2026
- Termination date
- No end date
Explanation
Updated October 26, 2026
Removal of an internal fixation device more than 30 days after it was inserted, done under local anaesthetic.
What it covers
R268 is removal of an internal fixation device more than 30 days after insertion, under local anaesthetic. Under general anaesthetic it is R267 (N3).
Removing internal fixation more than 30 days after insertion may be claimed in addition to the original procedure fee. Removing wires, pins or other traction or external fixation devices (other than rigid external fixators) is part of the original fee unless a general anaesthetic is needed (N1).
Billing rules
- Only for devices removed more than 30 days after insertion (N1, N3).
- Use R267 when a general anaesthetic is needed (N3).
- An anaesthetic or nerve block you give for your own procedure is not payable (SP5).
- If the case was referred and this fee is lower than the surgical consultation fee, you may claim the consultation amount under this procedure code instead, with no other claims for the care (SP4).
- More than one procedure under the same anaesthetic: the major procedure is paid in full and the others at 85% (SP2).
- Age premiums of 10% to 30% apply for patients under 16 (GP64).
- Marked #: the fee does not include the premises, equipment, supplies or staff for the procedure itself, which the hospital or ICHSC funds (SP1).
Related codes: R267, R598, Z280, Z281, Z210
Source: Schedule of Benefits (July 1, 2026), Musculoskeletal System Surgical Procedures, General Fees, page N3. Musculoskeletal preamble N1.
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