How To Use CPT Code 26776

CPT 26776 describes the percutaneous skeletal fixation of interphalangeal joint dislocation, single, 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 26776?

CPT 26776 is used to describe a procedure in which a provider treats a single interphalangeal joint dislocation by manipulating the bones and using a screw, wire, or pin through the skin to stabilize the joint. This code is used when the provider manually adjusts the bones, reduces the dislocation, and uses an implant to hold the joint in place.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 26776 is: ‘Percutaneous skeletal fixation of interphalangeal joint dislocation, single, with manipulation.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient and administers anesthesia.
2. The provider manually adjusts the bones to reduce the dislocation and bring them back to their normal alignment.
3. The provider creates an incision and inserts a screw, wire, or pin through the skin and into the bone to stabilize the joint.
4. The provider places the patient’s finger in a brace or splint to support the healing process.
5. An X-ray examination may be performed to confirm the reduction of the dislocation.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 26776 is used for patients with a single interphalangeal joint dislocation that requires manipulation and stabilization. The procedure is performed by a provider using a screw, wire, or pin through the skin. The patient may be placed in a brace or splint to support the healing process.

5. When to use CPT code 26776

CPT code 26776 should be used when a provider performs percutaneous skeletal fixation of a single interphalangeal joint dislocation with manipulation. This code is not appropriate for closed treatment without anesthesia or open treatment with internal fixation.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 26776, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis of a single interphalangeal joint dislocation
• Details of the manipulation and reduction of the dislocation
• Type of implant used (screw, wire, or pin)
• Date of the procedure
• Use of anesthesia, if applicable
• Placement of a brace or splint
• Confirmation of reduction through an X-ray examination, if performed

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 26776, ensure that the procedure involves percutaneous skeletal fixation of a single interphalangeal joint dislocation with manipulation. This code should not be reported for closed treatment without anesthesia or open treatment with internal fixation. It is important to follow the specific guidelines for reporting this code accurately.

8. Historical information

CPT 26776 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 performs percutaneous skeletal fixation of a single interphalangeal joint dislocation in a patient’s finger, using a screw to stabilize the joint.
2. A patient presents with a dislocated interphalangeal joint, and the provider manually reduces the dislocation and uses a wire to stabilize the joint.
3. A provider treats a single interphalangeal joint dislocation in a patient’s thumb, using a pin to hold the joint in place.
4. A patient undergoes percutaneous skeletal fixation of a single interphalangeal joint dislocation in their middle finger, with the provider using a screw for stabilization.
5. A provider performs a procedure to stabilize a single interphalangeal joint dislocation in a patient’s ring finger, using a wire inserted through the skin.
6. A patient with a dislocated interphalangeal joint undergoes percutaneous skeletal fixation, with the provider using a pin to stabilize the joint.
7. A provider treats a single interphalangeal joint dislocation in a patient’s index finger, using a screw to hold the joint in place.
8. A patient presents with a dislocated interphalangeal joint in their little finger, and the provider performs percutaneous skeletal fixation using a wire.
9. A provider stabilizes a single interphalangeal joint dislocation in a patient’s thumb, using a pin inserted through the skin.
10. A patient undergoes percutaneous skeletal fixation of a single interphalangeal joint dislocation in their middle finger, with the provider using a screw for stabilization.