How To Use CPT Code 26843

CPT 26843 describes the surgical procedure known as arthrodesis of the carpometacarpal joint in a digit other than the thumb. This article will cover the description, official details, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 26843?

CPT 26843 is used to describe a surgical procedure that involves the fusion of the carpometacarpal joint in a digit other than the thumb. This procedure aims to immobilize the joint and alleviate pain caused by arthritis. The provider may or may not use an internal fixation device during the fusion process. The carpometacarpal joint is where the metacarpal bone of the digit attaches to the carpal bone of the wrist.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 26843 is: ‘Arthrodesis, carpometacarpal joint, digit, other than thumb, each.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making an incision in the skin over the carpometacarpal joint of the affected digit.
2. They carefully dissect through the subcutaneous tissue, preserving the nerves and veins.
3. The joint capsule covering the joint is dissected to expose the joint surfaces.
4. The provider removes the articular cartilage from the joint surface, leaving raw bone.
5. Using a specialized tool, they hollow the end of the digit metacarpal to create a socket.
6. The surface of the carpal bone is shaped like a rounded cone that can be fixed into the hollowed metacarpal.
7. Internal fixation devices such as pins, wire, or a nail may be used to provide additional stability to the fusion.
8. Hemostasis is achieved, and the wound is closed by suturing the soft tissue layers.
9. A splint is applied to the digit for a period of four weeks to aid in the healing process.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 26843 is performed on patients who experience pain due to arthritis in a digit other than the thumb. The procedure is intended to immobilize the carpometacarpal joint and provide relief. The provider must carefully evaluate the patient’s condition and determine that arthrodesis is the appropriate course of action.

5. When to use CPT code 26843

CPT code 26843 should be used when a provider performs arthrodesis of the carpometacarpal joint in a digit other than the thumb. It is important to accurately document the specific digit involved in the procedure.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 26843, the provider must document the following information:

• The patient’s diagnosis of arthritis and the need for arthrodesis
• The specific digit on which the procedure was performed
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the surgical technique used
• Any internal fixation devices utilized
• Postoperative care instructions
• Signature of the performing provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 26843, ensure that the procedure performed is arthrodesis of the carpometacarpal joint in a digit other than the thumb. It is important to follow the specific documentation requirements and accurately report the digit involved in the procedure. There are no specific guidelines regarding reporting CPT 26843 with other codes.

8. Historical information

CPT 26843 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been historical changes to the code, including code changes in 2002 and 2010.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes arthrodesis of the carpometacarpal joint in their index finger to alleviate arthritis pain.
2. The provider performs arthrodesis of the carpometacarpal joint in the middle finger of a patient with severe arthritis.
3. Arthrodesis of the carpometacarpal joint in the ring finger is performed on a patient experiencing chronic arthritis pain.
4. A provider fuses the carpometacarpal joint in the little finger of a patient to address arthritis-related discomfort.
5. Arthrodesis of the carpometacarpal joint in the pinky finger is performed on a patient with advanced arthritis.
6. A provider performs arthrodesis of the carpometacarpal joint in the index finger of a patient with debilitating arthritis pain.
7. The middle finger of a patient undergoes arthrodesis of the carpometacarpal joint to alleviate arthritis symptoms.
8. Arthrodesis of the carpometacarpal joint in the ring finger is performed on a patient with limited mobility due to arthritis.
9. A provider fuses the carpometacarpal joint in the little finger of a patient to address severe arthritis pain.
10. Arthrodesis of the carpometacarpal joint in the pinky finger is performed on a patient with chronic arthritis discomfort.