How To Use CPT Code 26479

CPT 26479 describes the procedure of shortening the flexor tendon of a hand or finger to treat an elongated muscle causing instability at a joint. 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 26479?

CPT 26479 is a code used to describe the procedure of shortening the flexor tendon of a hand or finger. This procedure is performed to address an elongated muscle that is causing instability at a joint. It involves making an incision in the skin, accessing the target flexor tendon, removing a portion of the tendon, and joining the ends together to shorten it. The wound is then closed with sutures. Each tendon of the hand or finger requires one unit of this code for reporting.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 26479 is: ‘Shortening of tendon, flexor, hand or finger, each tendon.’

3. Procedure

1. The patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized.
2. An incision is made in the skin, and the subcutaneous tissue is dissected down to access the target flexor tendon.
3. A portion of the tendon is incised and removed.
4. The ends of the tendon are joined together to shorten it.
5. The wound is closed by suturing the soft tissue in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 26479 is performed when there is an elongated muscle causing instability at a joint in the hand or finger. This procedure is appropriate for patients who require the shortening of the flexor tendon to address the underlying condition. It is important to note that this code is specific to the flexor tendon and should not be used for other tendons or muscles.

5. When to use CPT code 26479

CPT code 26479 should be used when a provider performs the procedure of shortening the flexor tendon of a hand or finger. It is important to ensure that the procedure is performed specifically on the flexor tendon and not on other tendons or muscles. This code should be used for each tendon that is shortened during the procedure.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT code 26479, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for the shortening of the flexor tendon
• Details of the procedure, including the incision, removal of the portion of the tendon, and joining of the ends
• Date of the procedure
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT code 26479, ensure that the procedure involves the shortening of the flexor tendon of a hand or finger. It is important to accurately report the number of tendons that are shortened during the procedure. This code should not be reported with other codes unless there are additional procedures performed that are separately reportable. It is recommended to review the specific guidelines and requirements of the payer to ensure accurate billing.

8. Historical information

CPT code 26479 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 undergoes a procedure to shorten the flexor tendon of their finger to address instability at the joint.
2. A provider performs the shortening of the flexor tendon in a patient’s hand to treat an elongated muscle causing joint instability.
3. A procedure is performed to address an elongated muscle in a patient’s finger by shortening the flexor tendon.
4. A provider performs the shortening of the flexor tendon in a patient’s hand to improve joint stability.
5. A patient undergoes a procedure to address an elongated muscle in their finger by shortening the flexor tendon.
6. A provider performs the shortening of the flexor tendon in a patient’s hand to alleviate joint instability caused by an elongated muscle.
7. A procedure is performed to address an elongated muscle in a patient’s finger by shortening the flexor tendon.
8. A patient undergoes a procedure to improve joint stability by shortening the flexor tendon in their hand.
9. A provider performs the shortening of the flexor tendon in a patient’s finger to treat an elongated muscle causing joint instability.
10. A procedure is performed to address an elongated muscle in a patient’s hand by shortening the flexor tendon.