CPT® Code 24310

Tenotomy, commonly known as tendon release, is a surgical procedure aimed at alleviating pain and restoring function in the elbow to shoulder region by addressing issues related to tendon inflammation or other disorders. This procedure is particularly relevant for conditions such as golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis) and tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis), which are characterized by pain and dysfunction due to tendon irritation or damage. During the tenotomy, a surgical incision is made over the elbow or upper arm to access the affected tendon. The surgeon carefully identifies the tendon and assesses the extent of any damage present. The procedure involves making a horizontal incision near the tendon’s attachment to the bone, followed by a longitudinal split of the tendon to facilitate the removal of any scar tissue that may be contributing to the patient's symptoms. In some cases, the loose end of the tendon may be sutured to adjacent fascial tissue to promote healing and restore function. After the tendon has been treated, the overlying soft tissues and skin are meticulously closed in layers to ensure proper healing. A splint is then applied to maintain the arm in the correct position during the recovery phase. It is important to note that this CPT® code is reported separately for each tendon that undergoes tenotomy, reflecting the individualized nature of the procedure.