How To Use CPT Code 26508

CPT 26508 describes the release of thenar muscle(s) to address thumb 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 26508?

CPT 26508 can be used to describe the release of thenar muscle(s) to address thumb contracture. This code is used when a provider makes an incision into the thenar muscle or muscles to mobilize the scarred muscle tissue causing contracture of the thumb or palm.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 26508 is: ‘Release of thenar muscle(s) (eg, thumb contracture)’

3. Procedure

1. The provider makes a longitudinal incision over the protruded area on the palm just below the thumb.
2. The provider advances the incision down to the level of the muscles, exposing the thenar muscle.
3. An incision is made into the thenar muscle using a scalpel or other sharp object.
4. The provider confirms the complete release of the muscle and ensures appropriate movement of the joint.
5. The area is irrigated with antibiotics and sutures are applied in layers.
6. The provider may release more than one thenar muscle during the session.

4. Qualifying circumstances

Patients eligible to receive CPT 26508 services are those with thumb contracture caused by scar tissue or tightening of the thenar muscles. The procedure is performed by a provider who makes an incision into the thenar muscle(s) to release the contracture. Thumb contracture can result from various conditions or injuries, and the release of thenar muscle(s) helps restore normal thumb function.

5. When to use CPT code 26508

CPT code 26508 should be used when a provider performs the release of thenar muscle(s) to address thumb contracture. It is appropriate to bill this code when the procedure is performed to improve thumb function and mobility in patients with contracture caused by scar tissue or tightening of the thenar muscles.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 26508, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of thumb contracture caused by scar tissue or tightening of the thenar muscles
• Details of the procedure, including the incision made, release of the thenar muscle(s), and confirmation of improved thumb function
• Date of the procedure
• Any additional procedures performed during the session
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 26508, ensure that the procedure involves the release of thenar muscle(s) to address thumb contracture. Use the appropriate CPT code based on the specific procedure performed. It is important to follow the coding guidelines and accurately document the procedure to support the claim.

8. Historical information

CPT 26508 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 performing the release of thenar muscle(s) to address thumb contracture caused by scar tissue in a patient.
2. A surgeon making an incision into the thenar muscle(s) to release the contracture and improve thumb function in a patient with tightening of the thenar muscles.
3. A hand specialist performing the release of thenar muscle(s) to address thumb contracture caused by scar tissue in a patient with thumb injury.
4. A plastic surgeon making an incision into the thenar muscle(s) to release the contracture and restore normal thumb function in a patient with thumb contracture due to previous surgery.
5. An orthopedic surgeon performing the release of thenar muscle(s) to address thumb contracture caused by scar tissue in a patient with thumb arthritis.
6. A hand therapist assisting a provider in the release of thenar muscle(s) to address thumb contracture caused by scar tissue in a patient undergoing hand rehabilitation.
7. A hand surgeon making an incision into the thenar muscle(s) to release the contracture and improve thumb function in a patient with thumb contracture due to a traumatic injury.
8. A provider performing the release of thenar muscle(s) to address thumb contracture caused by scar tissue in a patient with a history of repetitive thumb movements.
9. A plastic surgeon making an incision into the thenar muscle(s) to release the contracture and restore normal thumb function in a patient with thumb contracture due to a burn injury.
10. An orthopedic specialist performing the release of thenar muscle(s) to address thumb contracture caused by scar tissue in a patient with thumb deformity.