How To Use CPT Code 26437

CPT 26437 describes the realignment of an extensor tendon in the hand to restore the fingers to their normal position. 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 26437?

CPT 26437 is used to describe the procedure in which a healthcare provider repositions an extensor tendon in the hand to correct the position of the fingers. This code is reported for each tendon that is realigned.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 26437 is: ‘Realignment of extensor tendon, hand, each tendon.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is prepared and anesthetized for the procedure.
2. The healthcare provider makes an incision above the affected tendon and extends it down to the damaged tendon level.
3. The provider then realigns the tendon to correct the position of the finger.
4. The incision is sutured in layers to complete the procedure.
5. CPT code 26437 should be reported separately for each tendon that is realigned.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 26437 is performed when a patient’s fingers need to be straightened due to conditions such as arthritis. The procedure involves the realignment of an extensor tendon in the hand.

5. When to use CPT code 26437

CPT code 26437 should be used when a healthcare provider performs the realignment of an extensor tendon in the hand to correct the position of the fingers. This code should be reported for each tendon that is realigned.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 26437, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for realignment of the extensor tendon
• Details of the procedure, including the specific tendon(s) realigned
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional relevant information or complications encountered during the procedure
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 26437, ensure that the procedure involves the realignment of an extensor tendon in the hand. Report this code separately for each tendon that is realigned. There are no specific guidelines regarding reporting this code with other codes.

8. Historical information

CPT 26437 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 healthcare provider performs the realignment of an extensor tendon in the hand to correct the position of the fingers in a patient with arthritis.
2. A patient undergoes the procedure to straighten their fingers, which have become bent due to a previous injury.
3. A healthcare provider performs the realignment of an extensor tendon in the hand to improve the functionality and appearance of the patient’s hand.
4. A patient with a congenital hand deformity undergoes the procedure to correct the position of their fingers.
5. A healthcare provider performs the realignment of an extensor tendon in the hand to alleviate pain and improve hand function in a patient with a chronic condition.
6. A patient undergoes the procedure to restore the normal position of their fingers after a traumatic injury.
7. A healthcare provider performs the realignment of an extensor tendon in the hand to improve the patient’s ability to perform daily activities.
8. A patient with a degenerative joint disease undergoes the procedure to correct the finger position and alleviate pain.
9. A healthcare provider performs the realignment of an extensor tendon in the hand to improve the patient’s grip strength and dexterity.
10. A patient with a tendon rupture undergoes the procedure to restore the function of their hand.