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Wiki Partial Extensor Tendon Excision in the Finger

SavCoder

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Savannah, GA
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Hello,

What is the appropriate code for partial extensor tendon excision/ debridement of tendon in the finger? I don't think it would be a tenotomy code as the tendon was not completely divided, CPT 26460. Would it was a tenolysis, CPT 26445? Or would it be a different code?

Procedure: Attention was then turned to the dorsal laceration over the PIP joint. The traumatic wound was slightly extended proximally and distally. Blunt dissection was performed down to the level of extensor tendon mechanism. There was a partial tendon injury on the radial aspect of the extensor mechanism that was less than 10% of the tendon width. This area of frayed tendon was excised to allow for a smooth tendon gliding. The area was copiously irrigated and nonviable tissue was sharply removed. The wound was closed with with interrupted nylon suture.
 
Hello,

I think 26445 would be appropriate in this situation because the doctor is removing the frayed, injured area to allow the tendon to glide freely, which seems to align with the ley terms for this code.
 
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