How To Use CPT Code 26641

CPT 26641 describes the closed treatment of carpometacarpal dislocation in the thumb, with manipulation. 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 26641?

CPT 26641 is used to describe the closed treatment of carpometacarpal dislocation in the thumb, with manipulation. This code is used when a healthcare provider manipulates the dislocated bones in the joint at the base of the thumb near the wrist to return them to their normal position. No incision is made during this procedure.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 26641 is: ‘Closed treatment of carpometacarpal dislocation, thumb, with manipulation.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider prepares and anesthetizes the patient.
2. The provider manipulates the bones in the carpometacarpal joint at the base of the thumb to correct their anatomical position.
3. The alignment of the bones is confirmed using imaging techniques.
4. A splint is applied to stabilize the repair and minimize pain.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 26641 is performed when a patient has a dislocation in the carpometacarpal joint of the thumb. The procedure involves manipulating the bones back into their correct position without making an incision. It is important to note that this code is specifically for the treatment of carpometacarpal dislocation in the thumb.

5. When to use CPT code 26641

CPT code 26641 should be used when a healthcare provider performs closed treatment of carpometacarpal dislocation in the thumb, with manipulation. It should not be used for other types of dislocations or for open treatment of fractures.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 26641, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of carpometacarpal dislocation in the thumb
• Details of the closed treatment procedure, including the manipulation of the bones
• Confirmation of bone alignment using imaging techniques
• Application of a splint for stabilization

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 26641, ensure that the procedure performed is the closed treatment of carpometacarpal dislocation in the thumb, with manipulation. This code should not be reported with other codes for different procedures. It is important to accurately document and code the specific procedure performed.

8. Historical information

CPT 26641 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 presents with a dislocated carpometacarpal joint in their thumb. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment, manipulating the bones back into their correct position and applying a splint for stabilization.
2. After a fall, a patient is diagnosed with a carpometacarpal dislocation in their thumb. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment, manipulating the bones and confirming alignment using imaging techniques.
3. A patient experiences a carpometacarpal dislocation in their thumb during a sports activity. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment, manipulating the bones and applying a splint to support the repair.
4. Following a traumatic injury, a patient presents with a dislocated carpometacarpal joint in their thumb. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment, manipulating the bones and ensuring proper alignment through imaging.
5. A patient seeks medical attention for a carpometacarpal dislocation in their thumb. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment, manipulating the bones and providing stabilization with a splint.
6. During a routine examination, a patient is diagnosed with a carpometacarpal dislocation in their thumb. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment, manipulating the bones and confirming alignment using imaging techniques.
7. A patient presents with a dislocated carpometacarpal joint in their thumb after a fall. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment, manipulating the bones and applying a splint for support.
8. Following a sports injury, a patient is diagnosed with a carpometacarpal dislocation in their thumb. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment, manipulating the bones and ensuring proper alignment through imaging.
9. A patient experiences a carpometacarpal dislocation in their thumb during a recreational activity. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment, manipulating the bones and providing stabilization with a splint.
10. After a traumatic incident, a patient seeks medical attention for a carpometacarpal dislocation in their thumb. The healthcare provider performs closed treatment, manipulating the bones and confirming alignment using imaging techniques.