How To Use CPT Code 26040

CPT 26040 describes a surgical procedure known as fasciotomy, specifically for the palmar region of the hand. This article will provide an overview of CPT code 26040, 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 26040?

CPT 26040 is a code used to describe a surgical procedure called fasciotomy, which is performed on the palmar region of the hand. This procedure is typically used to treat a condition known as Dupuytren’s contracture, where the tissues of the hand contract, causing the fingers to permanently bend and impairing movement.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 26040 is: ‘Fasciotomy, palmar (eg, Dupuytren’s contracture); percutaneous.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by preparing and anesthetizing the patient appropriately.
2. A percutaneous or small stab incision is made in the skin and subcutaneous tissue of the palmar fascia, which is the connective tissue just under the skin in the palm of the hand.
3. The provider then releases the contracture by incising the thick or shortened tissues, relieving the tension.
4. The wound is closed in layers using sutures.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 26040 is typically used for patients with Dupuytren’s contracture, a condition characterized by the thickening and shortening of fibrous bands on the palmar surface of the hands and fingers. The procedure is performed by a qualified healthcare professional and involves a percutaneous approach to release the contracture and restore hand function.

5. When to use CPT code 26040

CPT code 26040 should be used when a provider performs a percutaneous fasciotomy on the palmar region of the hand to treat Dupuytren’s contracture. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 26040, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of Dupuytren’s contracture
• Details of the percutaneous fasciotomy procedure performed
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional relevant information or complications encountered during the procedure
• Signature of the performing healthcare professional

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 26040, it is important to ensure that the procedure performed aligns with the code description. Additionally, providers should follow any specific billing guidelines set forth by their payer or coding guidelines. It is also important to consider any potential bundling or unbundling issues with other related codes.

8. Historical information

CPT code 26040 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. Examples

1. A provider performs a percutaneous fasciotomy on a patient with Dupuytren’s contracture, releasing the contracture and improving hand function.
2. A patient with severe Dupuytren’s contracture undergoes a percutaneous fasciotomy to restore finger mobility and improve hand function.
3. A provider performs a percutaneous fasciotomy on a patient with Dupuytren’s contracture, relieving the tension in the palmar fascia and allowing for improved hand movement.
4. A patient with Dupuytren’s contracture undergoes a percutaneous fasciotomy to release the contracture and restore hand function.
5. A provider performs a percutaneous fasciotomy on a patient with Dupuytren’s contracture, improving finger mobility and reducing hand impairment.
6. A patient with Dupuytren’s contracture undergoes a percutaneous fasciotomy to alleviate the contracture and improve hand function.
7. A provider performs a percutaneous fasciotomy on a patient with Dupuytren’s contracture, releasing the tension in the palmar fascia and restoring hand mobility.
8. A patient with severe Dupuytren’s contracture undergoes a percutaneous fasciotomy to improve finger movement and restore hand function.
9. A provider performs a percutaneous fasciotomy on a patient with Dupuytren’s contracture, relieving the contracture and improving hand mobility.
10. A patient with Dupuytren’s contracture undergoes a percutaneous fasciotomy to release the tension in the palmar fascia and restore hand function.