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Official Description

Transfer, finger to another position without microvascular anastomosis

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 26555 involves the transfer of a finger from one location to another on the hand. This transfer is performed without the need for microvascular anastomosis, which means that the surgeon does not need to surgically connect nerves, blood vessels, or other anatomical structures during the procedure. The primary goal of this surgical intervention is to reposition the finger to improve function, aesthetics, or both, depending on the specific needs of the patient. The procedure is typically indicated in cases where the original position of the finger may be causing functional impairment or where a more favorable position can enhance the overall hand function. The transfer is executed with careful consideration of the surrounding tissues to ensure optimal healing and recovery.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure associated with CPT® Code 26555 is indicated for various conditions where repositioning of a finger is necessary. The following are explicitly provided indications for this procedure:

  • Functional Impairment The transfer may be performed to address issues where the current position of the finger limits the patient's ability to perform daily activities or tasks effectively.
  • Aesthetic Concerns The procedure can also be indicated for patients seeking to improve the appearance of their hand, particularly if the finger's position is deemed unsightly or abnormal.
  • Trauma or Injury In cases where a finger has been injured or deformed due to trauma, the transfer may be necessary to restore proper alignment and function.

2. Procedure

The procedure for transferring a finger without microvascular anastomosis involves several key steps that ensure the successful repositioning of the finger. Each step is critical to achieving the desired outcome while minimizing complications.

  • Step 1: Preoperative Assessment Prior to the procedure, a thorough assessment of the patient's hand and finger function is conducted. This includes evaluating the range of motion, strength, and any existing deformities. The surgeon discusses the goals of the surgery with the patient and obtains informed consent.
  • Step 2: Anesthesia Administration The patient is then prepared for surgery, which typically involves the administration of local or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the case and the patient's needs. This ensures that the patient remains comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure.
  • Step 3: Surgical Access The surgeon makes an incision at the base of the finger to be transferred, carefully dissecting through the skin and underlying tissues to expose the structures involved. This step is performed with precision to minimize damage to surrounding tissues.
  • Step 4: Finger Transfer The surgeon then mobilizes the finger, detaching it from its original position while preserving the integrity of the surrounding structures. The finger is then repositioned to the desired location on the hand, ensuring proper alignment and function.
  • Step 5: Closure Once the finger is in its new position, the surgeon meticulously closes the incision using sutures or other closure techniques. This step is crucial for promoting healing and reducing the risk of infection.
  • Step 6: Postoperative Care Instructions After the procedure, the patient receives specific instructions regarding care for the surgical site, activity restrictions, and follow-up appointments to monitor healing and function.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care following the transfer of a finger is essential for optimal recovery. Patients are typically advised to keep the surgical site clean and dry, and to follow any specific wound care instructions provided by the surgeon. Pain management may be necessary, and patients are often prescribed analgesics to manage discomfort. Physical therapy may be recommended to help restore function and mobility to the finger and hand. The expected recovery time can vary based on individual healing rates and the complexity of the procedure, but patients should be monitored for any signs of complications, such as infection or improper healing. Follow-up appointments are crucial to assess the success of the transfer and to make any necessary adjustments to the rehabilitation plan.

Short Descr POSITIONAL CHANGE OF FINGER
Medium Descr TR FNGR AXH POS W/O MVASC ANAST
Long Descr Transfer, finger to another position without microvascular anastomosis
Status Code Active Code
Global Days 090 - Major Surgery
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 2 - Standard payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 2 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery does not apply to this procedure...
Co-Surgeons (62) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Team Surgery (66) 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Hospital Part B services paid through a comprehensive APC
ASC Payment Indicator Surgical procedure on ASC list in CY 2007; payment based on OPPS relative payment weight.
Type of Service (TOS) 2 - Surgery
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) P5B - Ambulatory procedures - musculoskeletal
MUE 2
CCS Clinical Classification 161 - Other OR therapeutic procedures on bone
78 Unplanned return to the operating/procedure room by the same physician or other qualified health care professional following initial procedure for a related procedure during the postoperative period: it may be necessary to indicate that another procedure was performed during the postoperative period of the initial procedure (unplanned procedure following initial procedure). when this procedure is related to the first, and requires the use of an operating/procedure room, it may be reported by adding modifier 78 to the related procedure. (for repeat procedures, see modifier 76.)
79 Unrelated procedure or service by the same physician or other qualified health care professional during the postoperative period: the individual may need to indicate that the performance of a procedure or service during the postoperative period was unrelated to the original procedure. this circumstance may be reported by using modifier 79. (for repeat procedures on the same day, see modifier 76.)
F1 Left hand, second digit
LT Left side (used to identify procedures performed on the left side of the body)
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