How To Use CPT Code 26485

CPT 26485 describes the transfer or transplant of a tendon in the palmar area of the hand without using a free graft. 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 26485?

CPT 26485 can be used to describe the transfer or transplant of a tendon in the palmar area of the hand without using a free graft. This code is used when the provider moves a tendon to a desired area and sutures it in place over another tendon or replaces another tendon to restore lost function due to paralysis or damage.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 26485 is: ‘Transfer or transplant of tendon, palmar; without free tendon graft, each tendon.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider makes an incision in the skin over the palmar area of the hand and dissects through the subcutaneous tissue to expose the tendon.
2. The provider isolates the tendon and separates it from its insertion.
3. The provider moves the tendon to the desired area and sutures it in place over another tendon or replaces another tendon.
4. The provider obtains hemostasis at the surgical site and closes the wound by suturing the soft tissue in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

Patients eligible to receive CPT 26485 services are those who require a transfer or transplant of a tendon in the palmar area of the hand without using a free graft. This procedure is typically performed to restore lost function due to paralysis or damage of the tendon being replaced. The provider must document the need for the procedure and ensure that the patient is appropriately prepped and anesthetized.

5. When to use CPT code 26485

CPT code 26485 should be used when the provider performs a transfer or transplant of a tendon in the palmar area of the hand without using a free graft. This code should be reported for each tendon that is transferred or transplanted.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 26485, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for the tendon transfer or transplant
• Details of the procedure, including the specific tendon involved and the location of the transfer or transplant
• Date of the procedure
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Any additional procedures performed during the same session
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 26485, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for this code, including the transfer or transplant of a tendon in the palmar area of the hand without using a free graft. There are no specific guidelines regarding reporting this code with other codes. However, it is important to accurately document and code any additional procedures performed during the same session.

8. Historical information

CPT 26485 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A provider performs a tendon transfer in the palmar area of the hand to restore function lost due to paralysis.
2. A patient undergoes a tendon transplant in the palmar area of the hand to replace a damaged tendon.
3. A provider sutures a transferred tendon in place over another tendon in the palmar area of the hand to improve hand function.
4. A patient receives a tendon transplant in the palmar area of the hand to replace a non-functioning tendon.
5. A provider performs a tendon transfer in the palmar area of the hand to improve grip strength.
6. A patient undergoes a tendon transplant in the palmar area of the hand to restore finger movement.
7. A provider sutures a transferred tendon in place over another tendon in the palmar area of the hand to improve finger dexterity.
8. A patient receives a tendon transplant in the palmar area of the hand to restore thumb function.
9. A provider performs a tendon transfer in the palmar area of the hand to improve hand coordination.
10. A patient undergoes a tendon transplant in the palmar area of the hand to restore pinch strength.