How To Use CPT Code 26497

CPT 26497 describes the transfer of a tendon to restore the intrinsic function of the ring and small fingers. 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 26497?

CPT 26497 can be used to describe a surgical procedure in which a tendon is transferred from one location to another to restore the intrinsic function of the ring and small fingers. This code is used when a healthcare provider performs the transfer to correct deformities and restore grasp in the hand.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 26497 is: ‘Transfer of tendon to restore intrinsic function; ring and small finger.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider makes an incision in the skin and dissects down to reach the involved tendon.
2. The provider separates the flexor tendon from its original insertion point.
3. The provider fixes the flexor tendon to the extensor mechanism of the hand.
4. This transfer of the tendon restores the intrinsic function of the ring and small finger.
5. The provider obtains hemostasis at the surgical site and closes the wound by suturing the soft tissue in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

Patients eligible for CPT 26497 are those who have lost the intrinsic function of their hand, resulting in hyperextension of the metacarpophalangeal joints and flexion of the proximal and distal interphalangeal joints of the ring and small fingers. The procedure is performed by a healthcare provider to correct these deformities and restore grasp in the hand.

5. When to use CPT code 26497

CPT code 26497 should be used when a healthcare provider performs a tendon transfer to restore the intrinsic function of the ring and small fingers. It is appropriate to use this code when the procedure is performed to correct deformities and restore grasp in the hand.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 26497, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for tendon transfer
• Details of the procedure, including the specific tendon transferred and the location of the transfer
• Date of the procedure
• Any complications or additional procedures performed
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 26497, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for the code. Use the appropriate CPT code based on the specific tendon transfer performed. It is important to follow the documentation requirements and provide accurate information to support the claim.

8. Historical information

CPT 26497 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 patient with hyperextension of the metacarpophalangeal joints and flexion of the proximal and distal interphalangeal joints of the ring finger undergoes a tendon transfer procedure to restore the intrinsic function of the finger.
2. A healthcare provider performs a tendon transfer to correct deformities and restore grasp in the hand of a patient with loss of intrinsic function in the small finger.
3. A patient with hand deformities resulting from a previous injury undergoes a tendon transfer procedure to restore the intrinsic function of the ring and small fingers.
4. A healthcare provider performs a tendon transfer to correct deformities and improve hand function in a patient with a congenital hand anomaly affecting the ring and small fingers.
5. A patient with hand deformities due to a neurological condition undergoes a tendon transfer procedure to restore the intrinsic function of the ring and small fingers.
6. A healthcare provider performs a tendon transfer to correct deformities and improve hand function in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis affecting the ring and small fingers.
7. A patient with hand deformities resulting from a traumatic injury undergoes a tendon transfer procedure to restore the intrinsic function of the ring and small fingers.
8. A healthcare provider performs a tendon transfer to correct deformities and improve hand function in a patient with a connective tissue disorder affecting the ring and small fingers.
9. A patient with hand deformities due to a degenerative condition undergoes a tendon transfer procedure to restore the intrinsic function of the ring and small fingers.
10. A healthcare provider performs a tendon transfer to correct deformities and improve hand function in a patient with a vascular disorder affecting the ring and small fingers.