61140 Burr hole/treph biopsy brain/lesion
Also known as: burr hole biopsy, brain biopsy via burr hole, lesion biopsy
Burr hole(s) and/or trephination of the skull with biopsy of brain tissue or lesion and/or removal of lesion from brain parenchyma.
In Plain Language
small hole in skull to sample brain tissue; brain biopsy surgery
Clinical Context
Performed for diagnosis of suspected brain tumor, abscess, demyelinating disease, or other parenchymal lesions when location precludes larger craniotomy. Stereotactic guidance improves diagnostic yield and safety.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 16.80 |
| Total RVU | 16.80 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. This code has a 90-day global period, which includes the day of the procedure, 1 day preoperative, and 90 days of postoperative care. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 16.80, this code ranks in the 77th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.1x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 61140?
CPT 61140 (Burr hole/treph biopsy brain/lesion) is a Surgery code. Burr hole(s) and/or trephination of the skull with biopsy of brain tissue or lesion and/or removal of lesion from brain parenchyma.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 61140?
The work RVU for CPT 61140 is 16.80. This code is primarily used by neurosurgery, neuropathology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 61140 used?
Performed for diagnosis of suspected brain tumor, abscess, demyelinating disease, or other parenchymal lesions when location precludes larger craniotomy. Stereotactic guidance improves diagnostic yield and safety.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against MGMA data — all in one app.
CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.