2025 CPT code 26560
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Surgery - Surgical Procedures on the Musculoskeletal System Feed
Repair of syndactyly (webbed fingers) involving one web space using skin flaps.
Modifiers may be applicable to this code. For example, modifier 50 is used for bilateral procedures, modifier 76 for repeat procedures by the same physician, and modifier 59 for distinct procedural services.
Syndactyly repair is considered medically necessary when the webbing significantly impairs hand function or causes deformity. Cases impacting fine motor skill development, grasping objects, or causing psychological distress are typically covered.
In simple words: This surgery separates webbed fingers. The doctor makes a cut between the joined fingers and uses the extra skin from the webbing to create flaps, which are then used to cover the separated fingers, like making two thumbs out of one.
This procedure describes the surgical separation of webbed fingers (syndactyly) for each web space. The surgeon creates skin flaps from the existing webbed skin to cover the raw areas after the fingers are separated. This code does not include complex cases involving bone or nail abnormalities.
Example 1: A 1-year-old child presents with simple syndactyly between the middle and ring fingers of the left hand. The surgeon performs a syndactyly repair using skin flaps to create a new web space., A 6-month-old infant has complex syndactyly involving the thumb and index finger, including bone fusion. The surgeon performs a complex syndactyly repair, which would be coded differently (26562)., A 2-year-old child with webbed toes undergoes a surgical separation of the second and third toes. While syndactyly repair principles apply, toe surgery is coded differently.
Operative report detailing the procedure, including the specific digits involved, the complexity of the syndactyly, the type of repair performed (skin flaps, grafts, or complex), and any associated procedures. Pre- and postoperative photographs can be helpful for documentation.
** Code 26560 applies to each web space repaired. If multiple web spaces are repaired during the same session, use the appropriate modifier (e.g., 59, XS) to indicate distinct procedures. Always refer to the most current CPT coding guidelines for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
- Modifier TC rule: Modifier TC is typically not applicable to this code as it represents a surgical procedure encompassing both the technical and professional components.
- Specialties:Plastic surgery, Hand surgery, Orthopedic surgery
- Place of Service:Ambulatory Surgical Center, Hospital Outpatient, Inpatient Hospital (for complex or extensive cases)