How To Use CPT Code 25290

CPT 25290 describes a procedure known as tenotomy, which involves the open incision of a flexor or extensor tendon in the forearm or wrist. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of CPT code 25290, including its official description, the procedure itself, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 25290?

CPT 25290 is a code used to describe the tenotomy procedure, which involves the open incision of a flexor or extensor tendon in the forearm or wrist. This procedure is performed to release the pressure of a contracted tendon on the joint and restore range of motion.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 25290 is: ‘Tenotomy, open, flexor or extensor tendon, forearm and/or wrist, single, each tendon.’

3. Procedure

During the tenotomy procedure, the healthcare provider begins by appropriately prepping and anesthetizing the patient. An incision is made in the wrist or forearm, allowing the provider to access the target tendon. The tissues and tendon are then retracted to gain better visibility. The provider incises the tendon at its junction with the muscle, relieving the pressure on the joint. After irrigating the area and ensuring there is no excessive bleeding, any instruments are removed, and the incision is closed.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 25290 is typically performed on patients who have a contracted tendon in the forearm or wrist that is causing restricted range of motion. This procedure is used to release the pressure on the joint and restore normal movement. It is important to note that the procedure is specific to a single tendon in the forearm or wrist.

5. When to use CPT code 25290

CPT code 25290 should be used when a healthcare provider performs an open tenotomy procedure on a single flexor or extensor tendon in the forearm or wrist. It is important to ensure that the procedure is accurately documented and meets the criteria outlined in the official description.

6. Documentation requirements

Documentation for CPT code 25290 should include the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for the tenotomy procedure
• Specific tendon targeted for the procedure
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the procedure, including the incision, retraction of tissues and tendon, incision of the tendon, irrigation, and closure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 25290, it is important to ensure that the procedure performed meets the criteria outlined in the official description. The procedure should be accurately documented, and the appropriate diagnosis code should be included. It is also important to follow any specific billing guidelines provided by the payer or insurance company.

8. Historical information

CPT code 25290 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Similar codes to CPT 25290

There are several similar codes to CPT 25290 that describe other procedures on the forearm and wrist. These include:

• CPT 25260: Tenotomy, open, flexor or extensor tendon, forearm and/or wrist, multiple, same forearm or wrist
• CPT 25270: Tenotomy, open, flexor or extensor tendon, forearm and/or wrist, multiple, different forearm or wrist
• CPT 25280: Tenotomy, open, flexor or extensor tendon, forearm and/or wrist, multiple, different forearm or wrist; with lengthening of tendon
• CPT 25447: Tenodesis, flexor or extensor, forearm and/or wrist, single tendon
• CPT 25449: Tenodesis, flexor or extensor, forearm and/or wrist, multiple tendons

9. Examples

1. A patient with a contracted flexor tendon in the wrist undergoes an open tenotomy procedure to release the pressure on the joint and restore range of motion.
2. A healthcare provider performs an open tenotomy on an extensor tendon in the forearm of a patient with restricted movement.
3. A patient with a contracted flexor tendon in the forearm undergoes an open tenotomy procedure to improve their range of motion.
4. An individual with a contracted extensor tendon in the wrist undergoes an open tenotomy to relieve pressure on the joint and restore normal movement.
5. A healthcare provider performs an open tenotomy on a flexor tendon in the forearm of a patient with limited range of motion.
6. A patient with a contracted extensor tendon in the forearm undergoes an open tenotomy procedure to improve their ability to move their wrist.
7. An individual with a contracted flexor tendon in the wrist undergoes an open tenotomy to release the pressure on the joint and restore normal movement.
8. A healthcare provider performs an open tenotomy on an extensor tendon in the forearm of a patient with restricted movement.
9. A patient with a contracted flexor tendon in the forearm undergoes an open tenotomy procedure to improve their range of motion.
10. An individual with a contracted extensor tendon in the wrist undergoes an open tenotomy to relieve pressure on the joint and restore normal movement.