26356 Repair finger/hand tendon
Also known as: Combined tendon repair, Flexor-extensor repair, Dual tendon repair
Surgical repair of flexor and extensor tendons of the finger or hand, including both the flexor and extensor systems in the same digit. This procedure addresses concurrent damage to multiple tendon systems.
In Plain Language
Fixing both bending and straightening tendons in a finger; Repairing multiple tendon systems in the same finger
Clinical Context
Performed when both flexor and extensor tendons are damaged, as may occur with crush injuries, mangling injuries, or severe lacerations crossing through multiple anatomic zones.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 9.32 |
| Total RVU | 9.32 |
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 9.32, this code ranks in the 56th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 26356?
CPT 26356 (Repair finger/hand tendon) is a Surgery code. Surgical repair of flexor and extensor tendons of the finger or hand, including both the flexor and extensor systems in the same digit. This procedure addresses concurrent damage to multiple tendon systems.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 26356?
The work RVU for CPT 26356 is 9.32. This code is primarily used by Hand Surgery, Microsurgery, Orthopedic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 26356 used?
Performed when both flexor and extensor tendons are damaged, as may occur with crush injuries, mangling injuries, or severe lacerations crossing through multiple anatomic zones.
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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.