CPT® Code 26373

The CPT® Code 26373 refers to the surgical procedure involving the repair or advancement of the flexor digitorum profundus (FDP) tendon when the flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) tendon remains intact. This procedure is categorized as a secondary repair, which is defined as being performed more than two weeks after the initial tendon injury. 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. The repair process involves locating the distal and proximal ends of the severed tendon, which may necessitate a separate incision if the proximal end has retracted. The proximal end of the tendon is then advanced distally and sutured to the distal end, or if the distal stump is less than 1 cm, it may be anchored directly to the base of the distal phalanx. This procedure is performed without the use of a free graft, distinguishing it from other related procedures that may involve grafting techniques. The surgical approach typically includes a volar zigzag or lateral incision, with careful dissection of soft tissues to protect surrounding neurovascular structures.