Examine This EIP to EPL Tendon Transfer Coding Case
Question: I have an operative note for an encounter where the orthopedic surgeon performed a thumb EIP to EPL transfer. What do these initials mean, and what codes should I report for the procedure? Alabama Subscriber Answer: The thumb EIP to EPL transfer means the orthopedic surgeon transferred the extensor indicis proprius (EIP) tendon to the extensor pollicis longus (EPL) tendon during a surgery performed on the hand. The EIP tendon straightens the index finger and is frequently used as a donor for different tendon transfers, the most common one being the EPL. The EPL tendon straightens the farthest joint of the thumb. An orthopedic surgeon performs an EIP to EPL tendon transfer to restore the thumb’s ability to straighten after the EPL has ruptured. The physician releases the EIP and attaches it to the EPL tendon. For this procedure, you’ll assign 26480 (Transfer or transplant of tendon, carpometacarpal area or dorsum of hand; without free graft, each tendon). Mike Shaughnessy, BA, CPC, Production Editor, AAPC
