26020 Drainage hand tendon sheath
Also known as: I&D tenosynovitis, flexor sheath drainage
Drainage (incision and drainage) of tendon sheath space of the hand.
In Plain Language
draining infected tendon sheath; tenosynovitis drainage
Clinical Context
Used for flexor or extensor tenosynovitis or tendon sheath space infections requiring surgical drainage to prevent tendon necrosis.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 6.67 |
| Total RVU | 6.67 |
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 6.67, this code ranks in the 44th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.2x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 26020?
CPT 26020 (Drainage hand tendon sheath) is a Surgery code. Drainage (incision and drainage) of tendon sheath space of the hand.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 26020?
The work RVU for CPT 26020 is 6.67. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Hand Surgery, General Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 26020 used?
Used for flexor or extensor tenosynovitis or tendon sheath space infections requiring surgical drainage to prevent tendon necrosis.
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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.