26479 Shortening of hand tendon
Also known as: Hand tendon shortening, Tendon plication, Hand tendon tightening
Surgical shortening of a hand tendon to address laxity, improve functional positioning, or compensate for weakness in the hand musculature.
In Plain Language
Tightening a hand tendon to improve grip or positioning; Shortening a hand tendon for better function
Clinical Context
Performed for lax hand tendons due to paralysis, weakness, or prior overstretching that results in loss of functional hand positioning or grip.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 5.76 |
| Total RVU | 5.76 |
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 5.76, this code ranks in the 38th 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 26479?
CPT 26479 (Shortening of hand tendon) is a Surgery code. Surgical shortening of a hand tendon to address laxity, improve functional positioning, or compensate for weakness in the hand musculature.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 26479?
The work RVU for CPT 26479 is 5.76. This code is primarily used by Hand Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 26479 used?
Performed for lax hand tendons due to paralysis, weakness, or prior overstretching that results in loss of functional hand positioning or grip.
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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.