CPT 2026: Expect new limb lengthening, nerve decompression codes

Why This Topic Matters

The article helps readers understand which areas of CPT are changing for 2026 and where new services are being introduced across major specialties. It is useful for organizations preparing for coding, charge capture, and compliance review around the next CPT cycle.

Article Sections

1. Overview of proposed 2026 CPT changes

   A summary of the types of new services highlighted for the 2026 CPT manual and the role of CMS proposed payment materials. It introduces the major chapters affected.

2. Musculoskeletal section adds 2 lengthening codes

   Coverage of new musculoskeletal additions related to limb-lengthening procedures. The section notes that the article discusses early release placeholder coding information.

3. E/M chapter adds 2 RPM services

   Discussion of new remote physiologic monitoring services in the E/M chapter. The section focuses on the general monitoring and management updates described in the proposed materials.

4. Medicine chapter remote therapeutic monitoring updates

   A parallel set of updates for remote therapeutic monitoring in the Medicine chapter. The section explains that the article compares these changes with the E/M remote monitoring additions.

5. Nervous System section adds hemilaminectomy, percutaneous decompression codes

   Coverage of new nervous system entries involving percutaneous decompression and related spine and wrist procedures. The section also includes a related hemilaminectomy add-on discussion.