61250 Burr hole/treph sttl exploration
Also known as: burr hole brain exploration, supratentorial exploration
Burr hole and/or trephination with exploration of the supratentorial brain surface for diagnostic purposes or to identify vascular lesions.
In Plain Language
small skull opening to examine brain; brain surface examination
Clinical Context
Performed for diagnostic purposes, identification of vascular lesions (aneurysm, arteriovenous malformation), assessment of subarachnoid hemorrhage, or evaluation of traumatic brain injury.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 11.20 |
| Total RVU | 11.20 |
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 11.20, this code ranks in the 63rd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.4x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 61250?
CPT 61250 (Burr hole/treph sttl exploration) is a Surgery code. Burr hole and/or trephination with exploration of the supratentorial brain surface for diagnostic purposes or to identify vascular lesions.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 61250?
The work RVU for CPT 61250 is 11.20. This code is primarily used by neurosurgery, neuroradiology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 61250 used?
Performed for diagnostic purposes, identification of vascular lesions (aneurysm, arteriovenous malformation), assessment of subarachnoid hemorrhage, or evaluation of traumatic brain injury.
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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.