How To Use CPT Code 26502

CPT 26502 describes the procedure for the reconstruction of a tendon pulley using a tendon or fascial 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 26502?

CPT 26502 can be used to describe the surgical procedure in which a damaged tendon pulley is reconstructed using a tendon or fascial graft. The provider makes an incision over the joint of the metacarpal and proximal phalanx or over a joint between two phalanges to access the tendon pulley. The damaged part of the pulley is removed, and the trimmed end is sutured. A tendon or fascia graft is then harvested and used to patch the area for a durable repair. The operative wound is irrigated, sutured, and a splint is placed for immobilization.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 26502 is: ‘Reconstruction of tendon pulley, each tendon; with tendon or fascial graft (includes obtaining graft) (separate procedure)’

3. Procedure

1. The provider makes an incision over the joint of the metacarpal and proximal phalanx or over a joint between two phalanges to access the tendon pulley.
2. The damaged part of the pulley is removed using a sharp instrument.
3. The trimmed end of the pulley is sutured.
4. A tendon or fascia graft is harvested.
5. The graft is used to patch the area for a durable repair.
6. The operative wound is irrigated and sutured.
7. A splint is placed for immobilization.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 26502 is performed on patients who require the reconstruction of a damaged tendon pulley. The procedure is typically performed on patients with finger injuries or conditions that affect the function of the tendon pulley. The provider must use a tendon or fascial graft to complete the reconstruction.

5. When to use CPT code 26502

CPT code 26502 should be used when a provider performs the reconstruction of a tendon pulley using a tendon or fascial graft. It is important to note that this code should not be reported if the provider performs a more extensive, related procedure on the same site in the same session.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 26502, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for tendon pulley reconstruction
• Details of the procedure, including the incision site and the use of a tendon or fascial graft
• Date of the procedure
• Operative time
• Any additional procedures performed during the same session
• Signature of the provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 26502, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for reconstruction of a tendon pulley using a tendon or fascial graft. Do not report CPT 26502 if the provider performs a more extensive, related procedure on the same site in the same session. It is important to follow the documentation requirements and include all necessary information on the claim form.

8. Historical information

CPT 26502 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 hand surgeon performing the reconstruction of a tendon pulley using a tendon graft for a patient with a finger injury.
2. An orthopedic surgeon repairing a damaged tendon pulley with a fascial graft for a patient with a chronic condition affecting the finger.
3. A plastic surgeon reconstructing a tendon pulley using a tendon graft for a patient with a finger deformity.
4. A hand therapist assisting a surgeon in the reconstruction of a tendon pulley using a fascial graft for a patient with a finger injury.
5. An occupational therapist providing post-operative care for a patient who underwent the reconstruction of a tendon pulley using a tendon graft.
6. A hand surgeon performing the reconstruction of a tendon pulley using a fascial graft for a patient with a finger condition.
7. An orthopedic surgeon repairing a damaged tendon pulley with a tendon graft for a patient with a finger injury.
8. A plastic surgeon reconstructing a tendon pulley using a fascial graft for a patient with a finger deformity.
9. A hand therapist assisting a surgeon in the reconstruction of a tendon pulley using a tendon graft for a patient with a finger injury.
10. An occupational therapist providing post-operative care for a patient who underwent the reconstruction of a tendon pulley using a fascial graft.