How To Use CPT Code 26445

CPT 26445 describes the procedure of tenolysis, specifically the release of the extensor tendon in the hand or finger from adhesions. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 26445?

CPT 26445 is used to describe the surgical procedure of tenolysis, specifically the release of the extensor tendon in the hand or finger from adhesions. This procedure is performed by a healthcare provider to restore the free movement of the tendon after injury or repair. It involves making an incision in the skin, dissecting through the subcutaneous tissue, breaking the adhesions and scars formed over the tendon, and suturing the soft tissue to close the wound.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 26445 is: ‘Tenolysis, extensor tendon, hand OR finger, each tendon.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider prepares the patient for the procedure and administers anesthesia.
2. An incision is made in the skin on the back of the hand or finger over the tendon to be released.
3. The provider dissects through the subcutaneous tissue to gain exposure of the tendon.
4. The adhesions and scars formed over the tendon are broken and debrided.
5. Hemostasis is achieved at the surgical site, and the wound is closed by suturing the soft tissue in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 26445 is performed on patients who have developed adhesions along the surface of the extensor tendon in the hand or finger after injury or repair. These adhesions restrict the movement of the tendon, causing pain and limited function. The procedure is typically performed by a qualified healthcare provider who has the necessary training and expertise in tenolysis.

5. When to use CPT code 26445

CPT code 26445 should be used when the healthcare provider performs the tenolysis procedure to release the extensor tendon in the hand or finger from adhesions. It is important to accurately document the specific tendon that was released and report one unit of this code for each extensor tendon that undergoes tenolysis.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 26445, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• The specific extensor tendon that was released from adhesions
• The date of the procedure
• Details of the surgical technique used
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 26445, ensure that the procedure was performed by a qualified healthcare provider and that the specific extensor tendon was released from adhesions. It is important to follow the appropriate coding guidelines and not report CPT 26445 with other codes that may overlap or duplicate the services provided.

8. Historical information

CPT 26445 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been a few changes to the code over the years, with the most recent change occurring on January 1, 2005.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes tenolysis of the extensor tendon in their hand to release adhesions caused by a previous injury.
2. A healthcare provider performs tenolysis on the extensor tendon of a finger to improve the range of motion and functionality.
3. Tenolysis is performed on the extensor tendon in the hand of a patient who experienced restricted movement due to scar tissue formation.
4. A healthcare provider releases adhesions from the extensor tendon in the finger to alleviate pain and improve finger extension.
5. Tenolysis is performed on the extensor tendon in the hand of a patient who had undergone previous surgery and developed adhesions.
6. A healthcare provider performs tenolysis on the extensor tendon in the finger to restore normal finger movement and function.
7. Tenolysis is performed on the extensor tendon in the hand of a patient with limited hand extension due to scar tissue formation.
8. A patient undergoes tenolysis of the extensor tendon in their finger to improve finger mobility and reduce pain.
9. Tenolysis is performed on the extensor tendon in the hand of a patient who experienced restricted movement after a hand injury.
10. A healthcare provider releases adhesions from the extensor tendon in the finger to improve finger function and range of motion.