How To Use CPT Code 26210

CPT 26210 describes the excision or curettage of a bone cyst or benign tumor of the proximal, middle, or distal phalanx of the finger. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 26210?

CPT 26210 is used to describe the excision or curettage of a bone cyst or benign tumor located in the proximal, middle, or distal phalanx of the finger. This procedure involves the removal of the cyst or tumor from the bone, typically through an incision in the skin.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 26210 is: ‘Excision or curettage of bone cyst or benign tumor of proximal, middle, or distal phalanx of finger.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized for the procedure.
2. The provider makes an incision in the affected finger to access the phalanx bone.
3. The provider locates the bone cyst or tumor within the phalanx.
4. The entire growth, along with any dead tissue, is scraped or scooped out of the cavity.
5. The provider may use curettes, a burr, or electric cautery to ensure complete removal of the disease.
6. The area is irrigated with saline to remove any debris.
7. Tall instrumentation is removed, bleeding is controlled, and the tissue is closed in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 26210 is performed on patients with bone cysts or benign tumors in the proximal, middle, or distal phalanx of the finger. These growths can cause mechanical pressures that may damage neighboring organs, nerves, or vessels. The procedure is typically performed by a qualified healthcare professional who has the necessary skills and training to safely remove the cyst or tumor.

5. When to use CPT code 26210

CPT code 26210 should be used when a bone cyst or benign tumor in the proximal, middle, or distal phalanx of the finger needs to be excised or curetted. It is important to accurately document the location of the cyst or tumor and the specific procedure performed.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 26210, the healthcare professional must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for excision or curettage
• Specific location of the cyst or tumor within the phalanx
• Details of the procedure, including the incision, removal technique, and closure method
• Any additional procedures performed, such as the use of autograft
• Any complications or unexpected findings during the procedure
• Signature of the healthcare professional performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 26210, ensure that the procedure is performed on the proximal, middle, or distal phalanx of the finger. It is important to accurately code the procedure and provide any necessary documentation to support the claim. If an autograft is used to repair a resulting bone defect, use CPT code 26215. Be aware of any specific guidelines or modifiers that may apply to your particular billing situation.

8. Historical information

CPT 26210 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 surgeon performing the excision of a bone cyst in the proximal phalanx of a patient’s finger.
2. An orthopedic specialist performing the curettage of a benign tumor in the middle phalanx of a patient’s finger.
3. A hand surgeon removing a bone cyst in the distal phalanx of a patient’s finger using a burr and electric cautery.
4. A plastic surgeon excising a benign tumor in the proximal phalanx of a patient’s finger and closing the tissue in layers.
5. An oncologist performing the curettage of a bone cyst in the middle phalanx of a patient’s finger and obtaining a graft for repair.
6. A podiatrist excising a benign tumor in the distal phalanx of a patient’s toe and irrigating the area with saline.
7. An orthopedic surgeon performing the curettage of a bone cyst in the proximal phalanx of a patient’s finger and using curettes to ensure complete removal.
8. A hand specialist excising a benign tumor in the middle phalanx of a patient’s finger and controlling bleeding during the procedure.
9. A plastic surgeon performing the excision of a bone cyst in the distal phalanx of a patient’s finger and documenting any complications encountered.
10. An oncologist performing the curettage of a benign tumor in the proximal phalanx of a patient’s finger and providing post-operative instructions for wound care.