CPT code 26862 denotes surgical arthrodesis (fusion) of an interphalangeal joint of the finger using autologous bone graft, with or without internal fixation. Nationally, this code captures definitive surgical management for painful, unstable, or arthritic interphalangeal joints when joint preservation is not feasible. It is relevant for procedural billing, utilization monitoring, and care-pathway design in hand surgery and orthopedic practice.

Key payers in the scope of this publication include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of clinical context for interphalangeal arthrodesis, operational settings where the service is delivered, and the common billing modifiers associated with this service. The publication highlights benchmarks and coverage considerations typically addressed by major commercial carriers and Medicare, and it summarizes coding nuances that affect claim submission and reimbursement workflows.

This resource is intended to inform billing managers, coding professionals, revenue cycle staff, and clinical leaders about the clinical purpose of CPT code 26862, probable sites of service, and payer coverage landscape at a national level. Data not available in the input is identified explicitly where applicable.