How To Use CPT Code 26370

CPT 26370 describes the repair or advancement of the profundus tendon in the finger, while keeping the superficialis tendon intact. 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 26370?

CPT 26370 can be used to describe the repair or advancement of the profundus tendon in the finger, with the superficialis tendon remaining intact. This code is used when the provider performs a primary repair of the tendon within a few days of the injury.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 26370 is: ‘Repair or advancement of profundus tendon, with intact superficialis tendon; primary, each tendon.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider makes an incision in the skin over the injured tendon.
2. They dissect through the subcutaneous tissue to expose the profundus tendon.
3. The provider repairs or reattaches the tendon to restore its function.
4. They ensure that the superficialis tendon remains intact.
5. Hemostasis is achieved at the surgical site, and the wound is closed by suturing the soft tissue layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 26370 is used to treat flexor profundus tendon avulsion injury by primary tendon advancement and repair. This procedure is performed when the patient has an injury to the tendon due to forceful contraction of a muscle against resistance, resulting in chipping of bone. The superficialis tendon must remain intact for this code to be used.

5. When to use CPT code 26370

CPT code 26370 should be used when the provider performs a primary repair or advancement of the profundus tendon in the finger, with the superficialis tendon remaining intact. This code should be used for each tendon repaired.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 26370, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for tendon repair
• Details of the procedure performed, including the incision, repair or advancement of the tendon, and closure of the wound
• Confirmation that the superficialis tendon remained intact
• Date of the procedure
• Signature of the provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 26370, ensure that the procedure performed is a primary repair or advancement of the profundus tendon with the superficialis tendon remaining intact. This code should not be reported with other codes for secondary repair or graft procedures.

8. Historical information

CPT 26370 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A hand surgeon repairing the profundus tendon in the finger of a patient who suffered an avulsion injury.
2. An orthopedic surgeon performing a primary repair of the profundus tendon in a patient with a flexor tendon injury.
3. A plastic surgeon advancing the profundus tendon in the finger to restore function in a patient with a tendon rupture.
4. A hand therapist assisting the surgeon in the repair of the profundus tendon in a patient with a finger tendon injury.
5. An occupational therapist providing post-operative rehabilitation for a patient who underwent a primary repair of the profundus tendon.
6. A hand surgeon performing a primary repair of the profundus tendon in a patient with a finger tendon laceration.
7. An orthopedic surgeon repairing the profundus tendon in the finger of a patient with a sports-related injury.
8. A hand therapist assisting the surgeon in the advancement of the profundus tendon in a patient with a finger tendon rupture.
9. A plastic surgeon performing a primary repair of the profundus tendon in a patient with a finger tendon avulsion.
10. An occupational therapist providing post-operative exercises for a patient who underwent a primary repair of the profundus tendon.