CPT® Code 26370

The CPT® Code 26370 refers to the surgical procedure involving the repair or advancement of the flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) tendon, specifically when the flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) tendon remains intact. The FDP tendon is crucial for finger flexion, extending from the upper anterior and medial aspects of the ulna to the wrist, where it divides into four tendons that insert at the palmar base of the distal phalanx of each finger. In this procedure, a primary repair or advancement is performed on the FDP tendon, which is typically indicated when the tendon has been severed due to injury. The repair is ideally conducted within 24 hours of the injury to optimize healing; however, if the wound is grossly contaminated, the procedure may be postponed for up to 2 weeks. This delay is critical to ensure that the risk of infection is minimized. The surgical approach involves exposing the tendon through a volar zigzag or lateral incision, with careful dissection of the surrounding soft tissues to protect vital neurovascular structures. Once the distal and proximal ends of the severed tendon are located, the proximal end is advanced distally and sutured to the distal end. In cases where less than a 1 cm distal stump remains, the tendon is advanced and sutured directly to the base of the distal phalanx. This procedure is essential for restoring function to the affected finger and ensuring proper healing of the tendon.