61321 craniectomy/craniotomy drainage intracranial abs ittl
Also known as: subdural hematoma evacuation with posterior fossa exploration
Craniotomy or craniectomy with drainage and/or evacuation of subdural hematoma (acute, subacute, or chronic) with intratentorial (within posterior fossa) exploration.
In Plain Language
surgical opening for brain bleed removal with lower brain examination
Clinical Context
Performed when subdural hematoma exists with concurrent posterior fossa pathology requiring surgical intervention. Allows comprehensive treatment of multiple intracranial lesions.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 29.77 |
| Total RVU | 29.77 |
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 29.77, this code ranks in the 92nd percentile among Surgery codes — 3.7x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 61321?
CPT 61321 (craniectomy/craniotomy drainage intracranial abs ittl) is a Surgery code. Craniotomy or craniectomy with drainage and/or evacuation of subdural hematoma (acute, subacute, or chronic) with intratentorial (within posterior fossa) exploration.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 61321?
The work RVU for CPT 61321 is 29.77. This code is primarily used by neurosurgery, trauma surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 61321 used?
Performed when subdural hematoma exists with concurrent posterior fossa pathology requiring surgical intervention. Allows comprehensive treatment of multiple intracranial lesions.
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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.