CPT® Code 26910

The CPT® Code 26910 refers to the surgical procedure known as amputation of a metacarpal, which may involve the removal of an entire finger or thumb, commonly referred to as a ray amputation. This procedure is typically indicated in cases of severe trauma, infection, or the presence of a malignant tumor affecting the finger or thumb. A ray amputation entails the excision of a portion of the metacarpal bone, which is the long bone in the hand that supports the finger or thumb. The surgical approach involves making a V-shaped incision over the carpometacarpal joint, which is the joint connecting the metacarpal bone to the wrist. The incision is extended down to the distal aspect of the metacarpal bone of the affected digit. During the procedure, the surgeon carefully dissects the soft tissues to expose the distal metacarpal bone, ensuring that tendons are appropriately managed—either detached or divided and then reattached to the remaining metacarpal bone as necessary. Additionally, digital nerves are divided, and their ends may be transferred to the interosseous space to minimize the risk of neuroma formation, which can occur when nerve endings are left exposed. Blood vessels are also ligated and divided to control bleeding. Finally, a specialized bone saw is utilized to cut the metacarpal bone at the predetermined level, after which the soft tissues are rearranged to adequately cover the exposed bone, and the overlying soft tissues are meticulously closed in layers to promote optimal healing.