How To Use CPT Code 26700

CPT 26700 describes the closed treatment of metacarpophalangeal dislocation, single, with manipulation, without anesthesia. 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 26700?

CPT 26700 is used to describe the closed treatment of a single metacarpophalangeal dislocation with manipulation, without the use of anesthesia. This code is used when a healthcare provider manipulates the displaced bones in the joint at the base of a finger or thumb to restore normal alignment and facilitate healing. The procedure does not involve making an incision and does not require general anesthesia.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 26700 is: ‘Closed treatment of metacarpophalangeal dislocation, single, with manipulation; without anesthesia.’

3. Procedure

1. The healthcare provider prepares the patient and administers local anesthesia to the affected area.
2. The provider then manipulates the bones of the metacarpophalangeal joint into the correct anatomical position.
3. Confirmation of alignment is done using imaging techniques.
4. A splint or brace is applied to stabilize the repair and minimize pain.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 26700 is used for patients who have a single metacarpophalangeal dislocation that requires closed treatment with manipulation. The procedure does not involve making an incision and does not require general anesthesia.

5. When to use CPT code 26700

CPT code 26700 should be used when a healthcare provider performs closed treatment with manipulation for a single metacarpophalangeal dislocation. It should not be used for cases involving multiple dislocations or when an incision is made. Additionally, this code should not be used if general anesthesia is administered during the procedure.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 26700, the healthcare provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of metacarpophalangeal dislocation
• Details of the closed treatment procedure, including manipulation and use of local anesthesia
• Confirmation of alignment using imaging techniques
• Description of the splint or brace applied for stabilization

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 26700, ensure that the procedure involves closed treatment with manipulation for a single metacarpophalangeal dislocation and does not require general anesthesia. It is important to follow coding guidelines and accurately document the procedure to support the claim.

8. Historical information

CPT 26700 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 closed treatment with manipulation for a single metacarpophalangeal dislocation in a patient’s index finger.
2. A patient presents with a dislocated thumb, and the healthcare provider performs closed treatment with manipulation to restore normal alignment.
3. A healthcare provider treats a patient with a metacarpophalangeal dislocation in their middle finger using closed treatment with manipulation.
4. A patient sustains a metacarpophalangeal dislocation in their ring finger, and the healthcare provider performs closed treatment with manipulation to correct the alignment.
5. A healthcare provider treats a patient with a dislocated little finger using closed treatment with manipulation.