26437 Realignment of tendons
Also known as: Tendon realignment, Tendon repositioning, Anatomic correction
Surgical realignment or repositioning of tendons in the hand or finger to restore proper anatomic relationships and improve functional outcomes, often performed after prior surgery or trauma.
In Plain Language
Repositioning tendons to improve hand function; Fixing tendon alignment in the hand
Clinical Context
Performed for malpositioned tendons, poor tendon routes, or subluxation that impairs function. May follow prior repair, transfer, or occur after trauma.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 5.84 |
| Total RVU | 5.84 |
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 5.84, this code ranks in the 39th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.4x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 26437?
CPT 26437 (Realignment of tendons) is a Surgery code. Surgical realignment or repositioning of tendons in the hand or finger to restore proper anatomic relationships and improve functional outcomes, often performed after prior surgery or trauma.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 26437?
The work RVU for CPT 26437 is 5.84. This code is primarily used by Hand Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery, Microsurgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 26437 used?
Performed for malpositioned tendons, poor tendon routes, or subluxation that impairs function. May follow prior repair, transfer, or occur after trauma.
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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.