25290 Incise wrist/forearm tendon
Also known as: tenotomy, tendon lengthening
Incision (tenotomy) of a wrist or forearm tendon to lengthen it, reduce tension, or improve function.
In Plain Language
cutting tendon to lengthen or relax it
Clinical Context
Performed for contracture, spasticity, or to reduce tension in tight tendons. Often used in cerebral palsy or stroke patients.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 5.29 |
| Total RVU | 5.29 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. This code has a 90-day global period, which includes the day of the procedure, 1 day preoperative, and 90 days of postoperative care. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 5.29, this code ranks in the 36th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.5x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 25290?
CPT 25290 (Incise wrist/forearm tendon) is a Surgery code. Incision (tenotomy) of a wrist or forearm tendon to lengthen it, reduce tension, or improve function.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 25290?
The work RVU for CPT 25290 is 5.29. This code is primarily used by Hand Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery, Neurologic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 25290 used?
Performed for contracture, spasticity, or to reduce tension in tight tendons. Often used in cerebral palsy or stroke patients.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against MGMA data — all in one app.
CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.