How To Use CPT Code 26477

CPT 26477 describes the procedure of shortening the extensor tendon of a hand or finger to treat muscle elongation and joint instability. 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 26477?

CPT 26477 is used to describe the procedure in which a healthcare provider shortens the extensor tendon of a hand or finger. This procedure is performed to address muscle elongation that causes instability at a joint. By shortening the tendon, the provider aims to restore stability and improve the patient’s condition.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 26477 is: ‘Shortening of tendon, extensor, hand or finger, each tendon.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider prepares the patient for the procedure, ensuring appropriate anesthesia and prepping the surgical site.
2. An incision is made in the skin, allowing access to the target extensor tendon.
3. The provider carefully dissects through the subcutaneous tissue to expose the tendon.
4. A portion of the tendon is incised and removed to shorten its length.
5. The ends of the tendon are then joined together to maintain the shortened position.
6. The provider closes the wound by suturing the soft tissue layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 26477 is performed when a patient presents with an elongated extensor tendon in the hand or finger, leading to joint instability. This procedure is appropriate for patients who have not responded to conservative treatments and require surgical intervention. The healthcare provider must assess the patient’s condition and determine that shortening the tendon is the most suitable course of action.

5. When to use CPT code 26477

CPT code 26477 should be used when a healthcare provider performs the procedure to shorten the extensor tendon of a hand or finger. It is important to ensure that the patient meets the qualifying circumstances and that conservative treatments have been unsuccessful. This code should be reported for each tendon that is shortened during the procedure.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 26477, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for tendon shortening
• Details of the procedure, including the specific tendon(s) involved
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional procedures or interventions performed during the same session
• Any complications or unexpected findings
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 26477, ensure that the procedure involves the shortening of the extensor tendon of a hand or finger. Use one unit of this code for each tendon that is shortened. It is important to follow the appropriate coding guidelines and not report CPT 26477 with other codes unless additional procedures or interventions are performed during the same session.

8. Historical information

CPT 26477 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 patient presents with joint instability in their finger due to an elongated extensor tendon. The healthcare provider performs the shortening procedure on the tendon to restore stability.
2. A hand injury causes muscle elongation and joint instability in a patient. The healthcare provider performs the shortening procedure on the extensor tendon to address the issue.
3. A patient with a finger deformity seeks treatment for joint instability. The healthcare provider performs the shortening procedure on the extensor tendon to improve the patient’s condition.
4. A chronic condition leads to muscle elongation and joint instability in a patient’s hand. The healthcare provider performs the shortening procedure on the extensor tendon to alleviate the symptoms.
5. A finger injury results in muscle elongation and joint instability. The healthcare provider performs the shortening procedure on the extensor tendon to restore stability and function.