How To Use CPT Code 26476

CPT 26476 describes the lengthening of the extensor tendon in the hand or finger to treat muscle contracture. 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 26476?

CPT 26476 is used to describe the lengthening of the extensor tendon in the hand or finger to treat muscle contracture. This procedure is performed by a healthcare provider to address permanent shortening of a muscle, known as contracture. By lengthening the extensor tendon, the provider aims to increase the angle between two bones and restore normal function to the hand or finger.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 26476 is: ‘Lengthening of tendon, extensor, hand or finger, each tendon.’

3. Procedure

1. After appropriate patient preparation and anesthesia, the healthcare provider makes an incision in the skin and dissects through the subcutaneous tissue to access the target extensor tendon.
2. A zig-zag cut is made in the tendon, allowing the two pieces to slide apart.
3. The provider then secures the tendon in the new lengthened position using stitches.
4. The wound is closed by suturing the soft tissue layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 26476 is performed when a patient presents with muscle contracture in the hand or finger that requires lengthening of the extensor tendon. This procedure is typically indicated for individuals experiencing permanent shortening of a muscle.

5. When to use CPT code 26476

CPT code 26476 should be used when a healthcare provider performs the lengthening of the extensor tendon in the hand or finger to address muscle contracture. It is important to accurately document the procedure and ensure that it aligns with the official description of the code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 26476, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis indicating muscle contracture
• Details of the procedure, including the specific extensor tendon lengthened
• 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 26476, ensure that the procedure performed aligns with the official description of the code. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure and any additional relevant information. Review the specific billing guidelines provided by the payer to ensure compliance with their requirements.

8. Historical information

CPT 26476 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 performs the lengthening of the extensor tendon in the hand of a patient with muscle contracture.
2. A patient presents with finger contracture, and the healthcare provider performs the lengthening of the extensor tendon to restore normal function.
3. A hand surgeon performs the lengthening of the extensor tendon in a patient with hand muscle contracture caused by a previous injury.
4. A healthcare provider addresses finger contracture in a patient by performing the lengthening of the extensor tendon.
5. A patient with hand muscle contracture undergoes the lengthening of the extensor tendon to improve hand function.
6. A healthcare provider performs the lengthening of the extensor tendon in the finger of a patient with muscle contracture due to a neurological condition.
7. A hand specialist performs the lengthening of the extensor tendon in a patient with finger contracture caused by rheumatoid arthritis.
8. A patient with hand muscle contracture undergoes the lengthening of the extensor tendon to alleviate pain and improve range of motion.
9. A healthcare provider addresses finger contracture in a patient by performing the lengthening of the extensor tendon to enhance hand function for daily activities.
10. A hand surgeon performs the lengthening of the extensor tendon in a patient with finger muscle contracture resulting from a traumatic injury.