How To Use CPT Code 26418

CPT 26418 describes the repair of an extensor tendon in the finger without the use of a graft. 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 26418?

CPT 26418 can be used to describe the repair of an extensor tendon in the finger without the use of a graft. This code is used when the provider performs either a primary or secondary repair of the tendon to restore its function. It is important to note that this code does not include the use of a graft for repair.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 26418 is: ‘Repair, extensor tendon, finger, primary or secondary; without free graft, each tendon.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making an incision in the skin over the injured extensor tendon in the finger.
2. They then dissect through the subcutaneous tissue to gain adequate exposure of the tendon.
3. The provider repairs the tendon using primary or secondary repair techniques, depending on the timing of the injury or previous surgical repair.
4. After repairing the tendon, the provider ensures hemostasis at the surgical site and closes the wound by suturing the soft tissue in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 26418 is used when a patient has an injury to the extensor tendon in the finger that requires repair. The repair can be either a primary repair, done within a few days of the injury, or a secondary repair, done at least a few days after the initial injury or previous surgical repair. This code does not include the use of a graft for repair.

5. When to use CPT code 26418

CPT code 26418 should be used when a provider performs a primary or secondary repair of an extensor tendon in the finger without the use of a graft. It is important to accurately document the procedure performed and ensure that it meets the criteria outlined in the code description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 26418, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for extensor tendon repair
• Details of the repair procedure, including whether it was a primary or secondary repair
• Date of the procedure
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Number of tendons repaired
• Any additional procedures performed during the same session
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 26418, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria outlined in the code description. This code should not be reported with the use of a graft for repair. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer and accurately document the procedure performed to support the claim.

8. Historical information

CPT code 26418 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 extensor tendon in the index finger without the use of a graft.
2. An orthopedic surgeon performing a secondary repair of the extensor tendon in the middle finger to restore its function.
3. A plastic surgeon repairing the extensor tendon in the ring finger without the use of a graft.
4. An occupational therapist assisting a hand surgeon in the primary repair of the extensor tendon in the little finger.
5. A hand therapist providing post-operative care for a patient who underwent primary repair of the extensor tendon in the thumb without the use of a graft.
6. A hand surgeon performing a secondary repair of the extensor tendon in the index finger to improve the patient’s hand function.
7. An orthopedic surgeon repairing the extensor tendon in the middle finger without the use of a graft.
8. A plastic surgeon performing a primary repair of the extensor tendon in the ring finger to restore its function.
9. An occupational therapist assisting a hand surgeon in the secondary repair of the extensor tendon in the little finger.
10. A hand therapist providing post-operative care for a patient who underwent secondary repair of the extensor tendon in the thumb without the use of a graft.