61305 craniectomy/craniotomy exploration infratntorl
Also known as: infratentorial craniotomy, posterior fossa craniotomy
Craniotomy or craniectomy with exploration of infratentorial (below tentorium) or posterior fossa intracranial space.
In Plain Language
surgical opening of skull to access lower brain; posterior fossa surgery
Clinical Context
Performed for posterior fossa tumors, brainstem lesions, cerebellar hemorrhage, Chiari malformation, or posterior fossa vascular lesions. More technically challenging than supratentorial craniotomy due to anatomic complexity.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 27.92 |
| Total RVU | 27.92 |
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 27.92, this code ranks in the 91st percentile among Surgery codes — 3.5x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 61305?
CPT 61305 (craniectomy/craniotomy exploration infratntorl) is a Surgery code. Craniotomy or craniectomy with exploration of infratentorial (below tentorium) or posterior fossa intracranial space.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 61305?
The work RVU for CPT 61305 is 27.92. This code is primarily used by neurosurgery, neuroanesthesia. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 61305 used?
Performed for posterior fossa tumors, brainstem lesions, cerebellar hemorrhage, Chiari malformation, or posterior fossa vascular lesions. More technically challenging than supratentorial craniotomy due to anatomic complexity.
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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.