26450 Incision of palm tendon
Also known as: Palmar fasciotomy, Palmar incision, Limited fascia incision
Surgical incision of the fascia and tendons of the palm to address contracture, improve motion, or allow tissue manipulation, typically a limited procedure shorter than formal release.
In Plain Language
Surgical cut in the palm to improve hand function; Incision of palm tissue for contracture management
Clinical Context
Performed for limited palmar contracture, access to palmar structures, or when more extensive release is not needed. May be preliminary to other procedures.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 3.70 |
| Total RVU | 3.70 |
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 3.70, this code ranks in the 26th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.2x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 26450?
CPT 26450 (Incision of palm tendon) is a Surgery code. Surgical incision of the fascia and tendons of the palm to address contracture, improve motion, or allow tissue manipulation, typically a limited procedure shorter than formal release.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 26450?
The work RVU for CPT 26450 is 3.70. This code is primarily used by Hand Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 26450 used?
Performed for limited palmar contracture, access to palmar structures, or when more extensive release is not needed. May be preliminary to other procedures.
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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.