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Billing code

Z103A — Incision and drainage of palmar or plantar space abscess or haematoma – local anaesthetic

Drain palm or sole abscess

Bill for incision and drainage of a palmar or plantar space abscess or haematoma under local anaesthetic.

Watch for: Under general anaesthetic, bill Z108 instead; add E542 outside hospital.

Code

Z103A

Description

Incision and drainage of palmar or plantar space abscess or haematoma – 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

Incision and drainage of a palmar or plantar space abscess or haematoma under local anaesthetic.

What it covers

Z103 is incision and drainage of an abscess or haematoma in the palmar or plantar space area when done under local anaesthetic (M1).

The same procedure under general anaesthetic is Z108 (M1).

Billing rules

• Local anaesthetic only; under general anaesthetic bill Z108 (M1).
• Add E542 when performed outside hospital (M1).
• Surgical procedure: age premiums apply for patients under 16, from +10% (age 5–15) up to +30% (under 30 days) (GP64).
• Non-elective and done after hours: ED physicians billing H-codes add E412 (+20%, evenings/weekends/holidays) or E413 (+40%, 00:00–07:00); other physicians add E409 or E410 (GP104).
• FHO: a Schedule 4 office procedure that counts toward the office procedures special payment when done in your office for enrolled patients (Agreement p.94, §8.7).

Often billed with

• E542 in the office (M1).

Related codes: Z108, Z101, Z173, Z174, Z106, E542, Z104

Source: Schedule of Benefits (July 1, 2026), Integumentary System Surgical Procedures, Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue, page M1.

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