26320 Removal of implant from hand
Also known as: Implant removal, Hardware removal, Prosthesis removal
Surgical removal of an implant that was previously placed in the hand, such as an internal fixation device, prosthetic implant, or foreign material. This procedure may include removal of plates, screws, or other hardware placed during prior hand surgery.
In Plain Language
Removal of metal plates, screws, or artificial parts from the hand; Taking out surgical implants from previous hand surgery
Clinical Context
Performed in patients with previously implanted devices that require removal due to infection, symptomatic implant syndrome, migration, or completion of the treatment plan after fracture healing.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.00 |
| Total RVU | 4.00 |
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 4.00, this code ranks in the 28th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.0x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 26320?
CPT 26320 (Removal of implant from hand) is a Surgery code. Surgical removal of an implant that was previously placed in the hand, such as an internal fixation device, prosthetic implant, or foreign material. This procedure may include removal of plates, screws, or other hardware placed during prior hand surgery.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 26320?
The work RVU for CPT 26320 is 4.00. This code is primarily used by Hand Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 26320 used?
Performed in patients with previously implanted devices that require removal due to infection, symptomatic implant syndrome, migration, or completion of the treatment plan after fracture healing.
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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.