26035 Decompress fingers/hand
Also known as: carpal tunnel release, nerve decompression hand
Decompression (surgical decompression) of fingers or hand, including carpal tunnel release, nerve decompression.
In Plain Language
carpal tunnel surgery; nerve decompression of hand
Clinical Context
Used for carpal tunnel syndrome, Guyon's canal syndrome, or other nerve compression syndromes of the hand requiring surgical decompression.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 11.09 |
| Total RVU | 11.09 |
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 11.09, this code ranks in the 62nd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.4x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 26035?
CPT 26035 (Decompress fingers/hand) is a Surgery code. Decompression (surgical decompression) of fingers or hand, including carpal tunnel release, nerve decompression.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 26035?
The work RVU for CPT 26035 is 11.09. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Hand Surgery, Neurosurgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 26035 used?
Used for carpal tunnel syndrome, Guyon's canal syndrome, or other nerve compression syndromes of the hand requiring surgical decompression.
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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.