28010 Incision of toe tendon
Also known as: tenosynovitis drainage, tendon sheath incision, flexor sheath release
Incision of tendon sheath or joint capsule of the foot or toe. This procedure opens and drains infected tendon sheaths or joint capsules to address infection or inflammation.
In Plain Language
draining an infected tendon sheath in the foot; opening a tendon infection
Clinical Context
Used for acute tenosynovitis, often following puncture wounds or from systemic spread of infection. Emergency treatment prevents tendon necrosis and preserves function.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 2.90 |
| Total RVU | 2.90 |
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 2.90, this code ranks in the 20th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.8x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 28010?
CPT 28010 (Incision of toe tendon) is a Surgery code. Incision of tendon sheath or joint capsule of the foot or toe. This procedure opens and drains infected tendon sheaths or joint capsules to address infection or inflammation.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 28010?
The work RVU for CPT 28010 is 2.90. This code is primarily used by orthopedic surgery, foot and ankle surgery, hand surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 28010 used?
Used for acute tenosynovitis, often following puncture wounds or from systemic spread of infection. Emergency treatment prevents tendon necrosis and preserves 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.