CPT® Code 26548

The procedure described by CPT® Code 26548 pertains to the surgical repair and reconstruction of the volar plate at the interphalangeal joint of the finger. The volar plate is a critical structure that provides stability to the joint, and injuries to this area often result from a combination of hyperextension and longitudinal compression forces, leading to an avulsion of the volar plate. This type of injury can significantly impair finger function and may require surgical intervention to restore normal anatomy and joint stability. The surgical approach involves making lateral incisions on both sides of the affected interphalangeal joint, allowing the surgeon to access the joint and its surrounding structures. During the procedure, a portion of the collateral ligaments may be excised to facilitate access, and the joint capsule is incised to expose the articular surfaces. The finger is then hyperextended to provide better visibility and access to the volar plate. A groove is created in the volar rim to re-establish the volar recess, allowing the volar plate to be advanced and secured in place. The use of drill holes in the phalanx ensures that the volar plate is firmly attached with sutures, and the joint is positioned in a flexed state to promote optimal healing. Kirschner wires are employed to immobilize the joint during the recovery phase, ensuring that the surgical repair remains stable as it heals.