How To Use CPT Code 26392

CPT 26392 describes the removal of a synthetic rod and the insertion of a flexor tendon graft in the hand or 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 26392?

CPT 26392 is used to describe the surgical procedure in which a healthcare provider removes a synthetic rod that was previously placed in a patient’s hand or finger. The provider then replaces the rod with a flexor tendon graft that is harvested from the patient. This code should be reported once for each rod that is removed.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 26392 is: ‘Removal of synthetic rod and insertion of flexor tendon graft, hand or finger (includes obtaining graft), each rod.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider makes an incision in the skin over the synthetic rod that was previously placed in the patient’s hand or finger.
2. The provider removes the synthetic rod and creates a site for the flexor tendon graft.
3. A flexor tendon graft is harvested from the patient’s foot or from the palmaris longus muscle in the forearm.
4. The provider sutures the flexor tendon graft into place, stops any bleeding, and closes the incision with sutures.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 26392 is performed when a patient has a torn flexor tendon in their hand or finger, resulting in swelling, pain, and difficulty in movement. The procedure is typically performed when other conservative treatments have failed to provide relief. The patient must be appropriately prepped and anesthetized for the procedure.

5. When to use CPT code 26392

CPT code 26392 should be used when a healthcare provider performs the removal of a synthetic rod and the insertion of a flexor tendon graft in the hand or finger. This code should be reported once for each rod that is removed and replaced with a flexor tendon graft.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 26392, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for the removal of the synthetic rod and insertion of a flexor tendon graft
• Details of the procedure, including the incision, removal of the rod, and insertion of the graft
• Source of the flexor tendon graft (foot or palmaris longus muscle)
• Date of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 26392, ensure that the procedure involves the removal of a synthetic rod and the insertion of a flexor tendon graft in the hand or finger. Report this code once for each rod that is removed. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer and to use the appropriate modifiers if required.

8. Historical information

CPT 26392 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 healthcare provider removes a synthetic rod from a patient’s finger and replaces it with a flexor tendon graft harvested from the patient’s foot.
2. A surgeon removes a synthetic rod from a patient’s hand and inserts a flexor tendon graft harvested from the palmaris longus muscle in the patient’s forearm.
3. A hand specialist removes a synthetic rod from a patient’s finger and replaces it with a flexor tendon graft to repair a torn flexor tendon.
4. An orthopedic surgeon removes a synthetic rod from a patient’s hand and inserts a flexor tendon graft to improve hand function.
5. A plastic surgeon removes a synthetic rod from a patient’s finger and replaces it with a flexor tendon graft to restore finger movement.
6. A hand therapist removes a synthetic rod from a patient’s hand and inserts a flexor tendon graft to improve hand strength and function.
7. A hand surgeon removes a synthetic rod from a patient’s finger and replaces it with a flexor tendon graft to repair a complex hand injury.
8. An occupational therapist removes a synthetic rod from a patient’s hand and inserts a flexor tendon graft to improve hand dexterity.
9. A hand surgeon removes a synthetic rod from a patient’s finger and replaces it with a flexor tendon graft to treat a chronic hand condition.
10. A hand therapist removes a synthetic rod from a patient’s hand and inserts a flexor tendon graft to restore hand mobility.