26100 Biopsy hand joint lining
Also known as: synovial biopsy hand, joint lining biopsy
Synovial biopsy (tissue biopsy) of hand joint synovium (joint lining).
In Plain Language
tissue sample from hand joint; joint lining biopsy
Clinical Context
Used for diagnostic biopsy of hand joint synovium to evaluate arthritis, infection, or other joint pathology.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.70 |
| Total RVU | 3.70 |
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 3.70, this code ranks in the 26th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.2x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 26100?
CPT 26100 (Biopsy hand joint lining) is a Surgery code. Synovial biopsy (tissue biopsy) of hand joint synovium (joint lining).
What is the wRVU value for CPT 26100?
The work RVU for CPT 26100 is 3.70. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Hand Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 26100 used?
Used for diagnostic biopsy of hand joint synovium to evaluate arthritis, infection, or other joint pathology.
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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.