CPT code 26350 refers to a surgical procedure used to fix or reposition a flexor tendon in the hand or wrist, without using any additional tendon from other parts of the body.
Procedure Explanation:
This procedure involves either repairing or moving a tendon that helps your fingers or wrist bend. Surgeons perform this operation by working directly on the affected tendon. They do this without using extra tendon tissue from elsewhere in the body, and the procedure is specifically done outside a high-risk area known as “no man’s land” where tendons are more complicated. It can be done either as an initial repair or a later one if initial treatment didn’t work.
Common Names:
- Flexor Tendon Repair
- Tendon Repositioning
- Primary or Secondary Tendon Fix
Relative Value Units (RVU):
The RVUs associated with this code are 6.21.
How This Procedure Appears:
- Operating Room Schedule Name: Flexor Tendon Repair, No Man’s Land Excluded
- Surgical Consent Form Name: Tendon Repair/Advancement without Free Graft
Typical Patients and Diagnoses:
This type of surgery is often needed for individuals who have injured their hand or wrist tendons, affecting their ability to move their fingers or wrist properly. For example, someone who has had a serious cut to the hand or has suffered a sports injury causing tendon damage may require this procedure.
Associated ICD-10 Codes:
- S66.112A: This code applies when there is a tear or damage to the flexor tendon in the index finger, often caused by an accident or cut.
- S66.211A: This represents an injury to the flexor tendon in the wrist or hand area, possibly due to trauma or overuse.
- S86.011A: This is used for injuries involving the flexor tendons of the lower leg, though less directly related to the hands, it indicates similar types of injuries in the body’s tendons.
Summary
In summary, code 26350 describes a surgical procedure aimed at fixing or repositioning a flexor tendon in the hand or wrist, done without adding any extra tissue. Typical ICD-10 codes associated with 26350 include S66.112A (tear or damage to the finger tendon) and S66.211A (trauma or injury to hand tendons).
Disclaimer
This post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. “CPT” and CPT Codes are registered trademarks of the American Medical Association. HCPCS codes are managed by Medicare and are not subject to copyright.