26497 Finger tendon transfer
Also known as: Finger tendon transfer, Finger opposition transfer, Intrinsic transfer
Surgical transfer of a finger tendon to a new location or muscle-tendon unit in the hand to restore function lost due to paralysis or muscle loss, particularly for opposition or pinch restoration.
In Plain Language
Moving a finger tendon to restore hand function; Tendon transfer to improve grip or pinch
Clinical Context
Indicated for paralyzed finger muscles or loss of opposition, as seen in ulnar nerve palsy, radial nerve injury, or spinal cord injury affecting hand function.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 9.52 |
| Total RVU | 9.52 |
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 9.52, this code ranks in the 57th percentile among Surgery codes — 1.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 26497?
CPT 26497 (Finger tendon transfer) is a Surgery code. Surgical transfer of a finger tendon to a new location or muscle-tendon unit in the hand to restore function lost due to paralysis or muscle loss, particularly for opposition or pinch restoration.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 26497?
The work RVU for CPT 26497 is 9.52. This code is primarily used by Hand Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery, Microsurgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 26497 used?
Indicated for paralyzed finger muscles or loss of opposition, as seen in ulnar nerve palsy, radial nerve injury, or spinal cord injury affecting hand function.
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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.