26478 Lengthening of hand tendon
Also known as: Hand tendon lengthening, Z-plasty lengthening, Staged lengthening
Surgical lengthening of a tendon in the hand using specialized lengthening techniques such as Z-plasty or staged elongation to restore adequate length and improve motion.
In Plain Language
Making a hand tendon longer using special surgical technique; Stretching out hand tendon with Z-shaped cut
Clinical Context
Indicated for significant tendon contracture in the hand when simple release is inadequate or when gradual lengthening is preferred.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 5.82 |
| Total RVU | 5.82 |
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 5.82, 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 26478?
CPT 26478 (Lengthening of hand tendon) is a Surgery code. Surgical lengthening of a tendon in the hand using specialized lengthening techniques such as Z-plasty or staged elongation to restore adequate length and improve motion.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 26478?
The work RVU for CPT 26478 is 5.82. This code is primarily used by Hand Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery, Microsurgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 26478 used?
Indicated for significant tendon contracture in the hand when simple release is inadequate or when gradual lengthening is preferred.
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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.