61450 Craniectomy stpl sctj cmprn/dcmprn
Also known as: superficial temporal artery compression, vascular compression procedure
Craniotomy or craniectomy with compression of the superficial temporal artery (or other compression/decompression procedure) in skull base region.
In Plain Language
surgical opening with compression of temple artery
Clinical Context
Performed for hemifacial spasm (STA compression), TIC douloureux, or other neurovascular compression syndromes. Provides access for microvascular decompression or vessel compression.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 27.00 |
| Total RVU | 27.00 |
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 27.00, this code ranks in the 91st percentile among Surgery codes — 3.4x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 61450?
CPT 61450 (Craniectomy stpl sctj cmprn/dcmprn) is a Surgery code. Craniotomy or craniectomy with compression of the superficial temporal artery (or other compression/decompression procedure) in skull base region.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 61450?
The work RVU for CPT 61450 is 27.00. This code is primarily used by neurosurgery, skull base surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 61450 used?
Performed for hemifacial spasm (STA compression), TIC douloureux, or other neurovascular compression syndromes. Provides access for microvascular decompression or vessel compression.
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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.