26476 Tendon lengthening
Also known as: Tendon lengthening, Tendon elongation, Contracture lengthening
Surgical lengthening of tendons in the hand or finger to improve range of motion and functional positioning when tendons have become shortened due to contracture or scarring.
In Plain Language
Stretching out a tight tendon to improve finger motion; Making a shortened tendon longer
Clinical Context
Indicated for tendon contracture limiting joint motion, typically performed when lengthening is preferable to release. May involve Z-plasty or other lengthening techniques.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 5.22 |
| Total RVU | 5.22 |
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 5.22, this code ranks in the 35th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.5x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 26476?
CPT 26476 (Tendon lengthening) is a Surgery code. Surgical lengthening of tendons in the hand or finger to improve range of motion and functional positioning when tendons have become shortened due to contracture or scarring.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 26476?
The work RVU for CPT 26476 is 5.22. This code is primarily used by Hand Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery, Microsurgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 26476 used?
Indicated for tendon contracture limiting joint motion, typically performed when lengthening is preferable to release. May involve Z-plasty or other lengthening techniques.
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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.