26593 Release muscles of hand
Also known as: Hand muscle release, Compartment release, Fascial release
Surgical release or decompression of hand muscles and surrounding fascia to improve function and reduce contracture, typically performed for muscle-fascial tightness.
In Plain Language
Releasing tight muscles and fascia in the hand; Surgery to loosen hand muscles
Clinical Context
Indicated for compartment syndrome, muscle contracture, or tightness limiting hand function, commonly performed after trauma or burns.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 5.36 |
| Total RVU | 5.36 |
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 5.36, this code ranks in the 36th 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 26593?
CPT 26593 (Release muscles of hand) is a Surgery code. Surgical release or decompression of hand muscles and surrounding fascia to improve function and reduce contracture, typically performed for muscle-fascial tightness.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 26593?
The work RVU for CPT 26593 is 5.36. This code is primarily used by Hand Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery, Trauma Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 26593 used?
Indicated for compartment syndrome, muscle contracture, or tightness limiting hand function, commonly performed after trauma or burns.
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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.