CPT® Code 24301

Muscle or tendon transfer is a surgical procedure aimed at stabilizing the elbow and/or restoring function to the upper arm. This procedure can involve various techniques, including the local transfer of an existing muscle or tendon from the elbow or upper arm to a new site, or the free transfer of a muscle that can be spared, such as the gracilis muscle from the thigh. The process begins with a skin incision made over the elbow or upper arm, allowing the surgeon to identify the injured or atrophied muscle. In cases where a local muscle or tendon is transferred, the surgeon will sever the existing bony attachments and reattach the muscle or tendon at a new location to facilitate proper function. Alternatively, if a free transfer is indicated, a separate incision is made over the muscle designated for harvesting. This involves excising the muscle along with its associated nerve and blood supply, which is considered a separately reportable procedure. The harvested muscle is then trimmed as necessary and sutured to the bones of the elbow in a manner that aims to stabilize the joint and promote reinnervation of the muscle, ultimately restoring motion. The CPT® Code 24301 specifically reports a single muscle or tendon transfer procedure, excluding codes 24320 through 24331, which pertain to other types of transfers or additional complexities.