CPT® Code 25275

Repair, tendon sheath, extensor, forearm and/or wrist, with free graft (includes obtaining graft) (eg, for extensor carpi ulnaris subluxation)

The procedure described by CPT® Code 25275 involves the surgical repair of a tendon sheath, specifically the extensor tendon sheath located in the forearm and/or wrist. This procedure is performed using a free graft, which includes the process of obtaining the graft material necessary for the repair. A common indication for this type of repair is a tear or laceration of the extensor tendon sheath, which can occur without any injury to the extensor tendon itself. One frequent site of such injuries is the extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) tendon sheath at the wrist. This injury often results from a partial dislocation of the wrist, known as subluxation, which can be caused by movements such as forced supination, palmar flexion, or ulnar deviation. The ECU tendon is situated in the sixth dorsal compartment of the wrist, making it susceptible to these types of injuries. The surgical procedure involves making an incision over the dorsal aspect of the wrist and the distal ulna, carefully dissecting the soft tissues while protecting the dorsal branch of the ulnar nerve. The retinaculum of the sixth dorsal compartment is then exposed, allowing for inspection and subsequent repair of the damaged tendon sheath using a graft harvested from the dorsal retinaculum of the wrist.