26170 Removal of palm tendon each
Also known as: palm tendon excision, tendon removal palm
Removal (excision) of palm tendon, each tendon.
In Plain Language
removal of muscle tendon from palm; palm tendon surgery
Clinical Context
Used for removal of diseased or damaged palm tendons (flexor or intrinsic), one per code.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.79 |
| Total RVU | 4.79 |
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 4.79, this code ranks in the 33rd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.7x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 26170?
CPT 26170 (Removal of palm tendon each) is a Surgery code. Removal (excision) of palm tendon, each tendon.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 26170?
The work RVU for CPT 26170 is 4.79. This code is primarily used by Orthopedic Surgery, Hand Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 26170 used?
Used for removal of diseased or damaged palm tendons (flexor or intrinsic), one per code.
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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.