26445 Release hand/finger tendon
Also known as: Hand contracture release, Finger contracture release, Soft tissue release
Surgical release of contractured hand or finger fascia and soft tissues to restore range of motion, typically performed for contracture affecting hand and finger mobility.
In Plain Language
Cutting tight tissue in the hand or fingers to improve movement; Surgery to release a tight hand
Clinical Context
Indicated for contractures of hand or finger origin, whether from Dupuytren's disease, post-traumatic scarring, or other causes of fascial tightness.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 4.34 |
| Total RVU | 4.34 |
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 4.34, this code ranks in the 30th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.8x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 26445?
CPT 26445 (Release hand/finger tendon) is a Surgery code. Surgical release of contractured hand or finger fascia and soft tissues to restore range of motion, typically performed for contracture affecting hand and finger mobility.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 26445?
The work RVU for CPT 26445 is 4.34. This code is primarily used by Hand Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 26445 used?
Indicated for contractures of hand or finger origin, whether from Dupuytren's disease, post-traumatic scarring, or other causes of fascial tightness.
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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.