61304 craniectomy/craniotomy exploration supratntorl
Also known as: supratentorial craniotomy, supratentorial craniectomy
Craniotomy or craniectomy with exploration of supratentorial (above tentorium) intracranial space for diagnosis or treatment of intracranial pathology.
In Plain Language
surgical opening of skull to access upper brain; brain surgery for upper brain lesions
Clinical Context
Performed for supratentorial tumors, traumatic brain injury, aneurysm repair, arteriovenous malformation resection, or evacuation of large hematomas. Provides superior access to anterior and lateral brain.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 22.82 |
| Total RVU | 22.82 |
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 22.82, this code ranks in the 86th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.9x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 61304?
CPT 61304 (craniectomy/craniotomy exploration supratntorl) is a Surgery code. Craniotomy or craniectomy with exploration of supratentorial (above tentorium) intracranial space for diagnosis or treatment of intracranial pathology.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 61304?
The work RVU for CPT 61304 is 22.82. This code is primarily used by neurosurgery, neuroanesthesia. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 61304 used?
Performed for supratentorial tumors, traumatic brain injury, aneurysm repair, arteriovenous malformation resection, or evacuation of large hematomas. Provides superior access to anterior and lateral brain.
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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.