26011 Drainage of finger abscess
Also known as: I&D complex finger abscess, complicated abscess drainage
Drainage (incision and drainage) of abscess of finger, complicated or involving multiple areas.
In Plain Language
draining complicated infected finger pocket; complex abscess drainage surgery
Clinical Context
Used for complicated finger abscesses requiring extensive drainage, multiple incisions, or involvement of multiple compartments.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.18 |
| Total RVU | 2.18 |
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 10-day global period — follow-up visits within 10 days of the procedure are included in the reimbursement. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 2.18, this code ranks in the 15th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.7x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 26011?
CPT 26011 (Drainage of finger abscess) is a Surgery code. Drainage (incision and drainage) of abscess of finger, complicated or involving multiple areas.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 26011?
The work RVU for CPT 26011 is 2.18. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Hand Surgery, General Surgery. It has a 10-day global period.
When is CPT 26011 used?
Used for complicated finger abscesses requiring extensive drainage, multiple incisions, or involvement of multiple compartments.
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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.