2025 CPT code 26862

Arthrodesis, interphalangeal joint, with or without internal fixation; with autograft (includes obtaining graft).

Refer to CPT guidelines for proper coding of arthrodesis procedures.

Modifiers may be applicable, such as 50 (bilateral procedure), 51 (multiple procedures), 59 (distinct procedural service), or 76 (repeat procedure by same physician).

Medical necessity must be established by documenting the underlying condition requiring arthrodesis, such as severe arthritis, trauma, or instability, and failed conservative treatments.

The surgeon is responsible for performing the arthrodesis, obtaining the autograft, and applying any necessary internal fixation.

In simple words: This procedure involves surgically fusing a finger joint to reduce pain and improve stability. The surgeon uses a bone graft from another part of your body to help the bones grow together. Pins, screws, or plates may be used to hold the joint in place while it heals.

This code describes a surgical procedure where a surgeon fuses an interphalangeal joint in the finger, using an autograft (bone graft from the patient's own body). Internal fixation may or may not be used.

Example 1: A patient with severe arthritis in the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint of their index finger undergoes arthrodesis with autograft to relieve pain and improve function., A patient with a traumatic injury to the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint of their thumb undergoes arthrodesis with autograft and internal fixation to stabilize the joint., A patient with a failed previous arthrodesis of the PIP joint of their ring finger undergoes a revision arthrodesis with autograft.

Documentation should include the diagnosis, the specific joint involved, the type of autograft used, whether internal fixation was used, and any complications encountered.

** The inclusion of "obtaining graft" in the code description indicates that the work involved in harvesting the autograft is included and should not be coded separately.

  • Global Days : The global period for this code is typically 90 days.
  • Payment Status: Active
  • Modifier TC rule: Modifier TC might apply in certain assistant surgeon scenarios.
  • Specialties:Hand Surgery, Orthopedic Surgery, Plastic Surgery
  • Place of Service:Ambulatory Surgical Center, Hospital Outpatient Department, Inpatient Hospital
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