How To Use CPT Code 26478

CPT 26478 describes the lengthening of the flexor 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 26478?

CPT 26478 is used to describe the lengthening of the flexor 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 flexor tendon, the provider aims to restore normal muscle function and improve the patient’s range of motion.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 26478 is: ‘Lengthening of tendon, flexor, 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 the provider to access the target flexor tendon.
3. A zig-zag cut is made in the tendon, creating space between the two pieces.
4. The provider carefully positions the tendon in the new lengthened position and secures it with stitches.
5. The wound is closed by suturing the soft tissue layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 26478 is used when a patient presents with muscle contracture in the hand or finger that requires lengthening of the flexor tendon. This procedure is typically performed on patients who have experienced permanent shortening of the muscle, limiting their range of motion. It is important to note that this code is specific to the lengthening of the flexor tendon and should not be used for other procedures or conditions.

5. When to use CPT code 26478

CPT code 26478 should be used when a healthcare provider performs the lengthening of the flexor 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. This code should not be used for any other procedures or conditions.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 26478, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of muscle contracture and the need for flexor tendon lengthening
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the procedure, including the incision, tendon lengthening technique, and closure
• Any additional procedures performed during the same session
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 26478, ensure that the procedure performed aligns with the official description of the code. It is important to accurately document the procedure and provide any necessary supporting documentation. This code should not be reported with other codes unless additional procedures were performed during the same session. It is recommended to review the specific billing guidelines provided by the payer to ensure accurate and appropriate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT code 26478 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 flexor 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 flexor tendon to improve range of motion.
3. A hand surgeon performs the lengthening of the flexor tendon in a patient with permanent shortening of the muscle.
4. A patient with finger contracture undergoes the lengthening of the flexor tendon to address muscle tightness and improve hand function.
5. A healthcare provider performs the lengthening of the flexor tendon in the finger of a patient with contracture caused by a previous injury.
6. A hand specialist performs the lengthening of the flexor tendon in a patient with muscle contracture due to a neurological condition.
7. A patient with finger contracture undergoes the lengthening of the flexor tendon to restore normal range of motion and improve hand dexterity.
8. A healthcare provider performs the lengthening of the flexor tendon in the hand of a patient with muscle contracture caused by a chronic condition.
9. A hand surgeon performs the lengthening of the flexor tendon in a patient with finger contracture resulting from a previous surgery.
10. A patient with hand muscle contracture undergoes the lengthening of the flexor tendon to alleviate pain and improve hand function.