How To Use CPT Code 26676

CPT 26676 describes the percutaneous skeletal fixation of carpometacarpal dislocation, excluding the thumb, with manipulation, for each joint. This article will cover the description, official definition, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 26676?

CPT 26676 can be used to describe the percutaneous skeletal fixation procedure performed by a healthcare provider to treat carpometacarpal dislocation in joints other than the thumb. The procedure involves manipulating the displaced bones to restore normal alignment and facilitate healing. Wires or pins are then inserted through the skin into the bones to hold them in place while they heal.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 26676 is: ‘Percutaneous skeletal fixation of carpometacarpal dislocation, other than thumb, with manipulation, each joint.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider prepares the patient and administers anesthesia.
2. The provider manipulates the bones of the carpometacarpal joint, restoring them to their correct anatomical position.
3. Using fluoroscopic guidance if necessary, the provider inserts wires or pins through the skin into the bones to maintain alignment.
4. The provider dresses the wound and ensures proper post-procedure care.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 26676 is used for patients with carpometacarpal dislocation in joints other than the thumb. The procedure is performed by a healthcare provider who manipulates the bones and uses percutaneous skeletal fixation to stabilize them. The patient must meet the criteria for the procedure, and the provider must document the need for surgery and the decision-making process.

5. When to use CPT code 26676

CPT code 26676 should be used when a healthcare provider performs percutaneous skeletal fixation for carpometacarpal dislocation in joints other than the thumb. It is important to ensure that the procedure meets the specific requirements outlined in the code description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 26676, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of carpometacarpal dislocation in joints other than the thumb
• Details of the procedure, including manipulation and percutaneous skeletal fixation
• Use of fluoroscopic guidance, if applicable
• Date and duration of the procedure
• Any additional services provided during the same encounter
• Signature of the healthcare provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 26676, ensure that the procedure meets the specific requirements outlined in the code description. It is important to follow the guidelines provided by the payer and to report any additional services provided during the same encounter. Modifier 57, Decision for surgery, may be used if an evaluation and management service resulted in the decision to perform the procedure.

8. Historical information

CPT 26676 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 healthcare provider performs percutaneous skeletal fixation for a patient with carpometacarpal dislocation in the index finger joint.
2. Using fluoroscopic guidance, a provider manipulates the bones and performs percutaneous skeletal fixation for a patient with carpometacarpal dislocation in the middle finger joint.
3. A healthcare provider performs percutaneous skeletal fixation for a patient with carpometacarpal dislocation in the ring finger joint.
4. Using internal fixation, a provider manipulates the bones and performs percutaneous skeletal fixation for a patient with carpometacarpal dislocation in the little finger joint.
5. A healthcare provider performs percutaneous skeletal fixation for a patient with carpometacarpal dislocation in the pinky finger joint.
6. Using external fixation, a provider manipulates the bones and performs percutaneous skeletal fixation for a patient with carpometacarpal dislocation in the middle finger joint.
7. A healthcare provider performs percutaneous skeletal fixation for a patient with carpometacarpal dislocation in the ring finger joint.
8. Using internal fixation and external fixation, a provider manipulates the bones and performs percutaneous skeletal fixation for a patient with carpometacarpal dislocation in the index finger joint.
9. A healthcare provider performs percutaneous skeletal fixation for a patient with carpometacarpal dislocation in the thumb joint.
10. Using external fixation and internal fixation, a provider manipulates the bones and performs percutaneous skeletal fixation for a patient with carpometacarpal dislocation in the thumb joint.