26510 Thumb tendon transfer
Also known as: Thumb opposition transfer, Thumb abduction transfer, Opposition restoration
Surgical transfer of a thumb tendon to restore thumb opposition, abduction, or extension in patients with paralyzed thumb muscles due to nerve injury or muscle loss.
In Plain Language
Moving a tendon to restore thumb opposition; Tendon transfer to improve thumb function
Clinical Context
Performed in median nerve palsy, posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) injury, or other conditions causing thumb paralysis or loss of opposition.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 5.46 |
| Total RVU | 5.46 |
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 5.46, this code ranks in the 37th 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 26510?
CPT 26510 (Thumb tendon transfer) is a Surgery code. Surgical transfer of a thumb tendon to restore thumb opposition, abduction, or extension in patients with paralyzed thumb muscles due to nerve injury or muscle loss.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 26510?
The work RVU for CPT 26510 is 5.46. This code is primarily used by Hand Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery, Microsurgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 26510 used?
Performed in median nerve palsy, posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) injury, or other conditions causing thumb paralysis or loss of opposition.
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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.