Tendon transfer to base of thumb

A patient with arthritis of the thumb presents with basal joint arthroplasty, capsulodesis of the metacarpophalangeal (MP) joint and tendon transfers of the extensor pollicis brevis (EPB), and flexor carpi radialis (FCR) to the base of the thumb. The FCR tendon is dissected and utilizing a guidewire passed from dorsal to palmar (anterior) exiting at the thumb metacarpal. A drill hole was made and the FCR was passed through, achieving tension and providing an arthroplasty space. A screw was used to hold the tendon transfer in place; the remaining FCR tendon was sutured in place as an interposition graft. What is the correct code for transfer of the FCR tendon to the base of the thumb metacarpal? ...

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Note:  The following article synopsis was NOT provided by the AHA. It was created by Find-A-Code/innoviHealth.

Article Overview

This premium coding article discusses a hand surgery scenario involving thumb arthritis, basal joint arthroplasty, MP joint capsulodesis, and tendon transfer work at the base of the thumb. It is intended for coders and other revenue cycle professionals who need to understand the procedure context, the relevant CPT coding topic, and how the article frames the coding question.

Why This Topic Matters

Hand and thumb reconstruction procedures can involve multiple operative components, so correct code identification depends on understanding the procedure scope and anatomy involved. This article helps readers determine whether the documented tendon transfer scenario falls within the relevant CPT guidance.

What You Will Learn

  • How the described thumb-base reconstruction is framed for coding review.
  • Which broad CPT procedure category the article addresses.
  • How the operative context combines arthroplasty, capsulodesis, and tendon transfer concepts.
  • How the article approaches a coding question involving hand surgery documentation.

Who Should Read This

  • Medical coders
  • Coding auditors
  • Orthopedic surgery billing staff
  • Hand surgery revenue cycle professionals

Codes Discussed


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