26485 Transplant palm tendon
Also known as: Palmar tendon transfer, Palm tendon transplant, Intrinsic transfer
Surgical transplantation of a palm tendon to a new location to restore function or improve hand positioning for patients with paralysis or muscle loss.
In Plain Language
Moving a palm tendon to improve hand function; Palmar tendon transplant for restoration
Clinical Context
Indicated for intrinsic muscle paralysis or loss, particularly in ulnar nerve palsy or when intrinsic function requires restoration through transfer of available musculature.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 7.69 |
| Total RVU | 7.69 |
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 7.69, this code ranks in the 49th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.0x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 26485?
CPT 26485 (Transplant palm tendon) is a Surgery code. Surgical transplantation of a palm tendon to a new location to restore function or improve hand positioning for patients with paralysis or muscle loss.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 26485?
The work RVU for CPT 26485 is 7.69. This code is primarily used by Hand Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery, Microsurgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 26485 used?
Indicated for intrinsic muscle paralysis or loss, particularly in ulnar nerve palsy or when intrinsic function requires restoration through transfer of available musculature.
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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.