61460 Craniectomy sopl sctj 1+crnl nerve
Also known as: cranial nerve section, nerve transection, trigeminal rhizotomy
Craniotomy or craniectomy with section/transaction of one or more cranial nerves in the skull base region, typically for neuralgia control or functional neurosurgery.
In Plain Language
surgical opening with cutting of nerve to stop pain
Clinical Context
Performed for refractory trigeminal neuralgia, glossopharyngeal neuralgia, or other severe neuralgia when decompression unsuccessful or inappropriate. Sacrifices sensory nerve function to relieve pain.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 29.48 |
| Total RVU | 29.48 |
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 29.48, 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 61460?
CPT 61460 (Craniectomy sopl sctj 1+crnl nerve) is a Surgery code. Craniotomy or craniectomy with section/transaction of one or more cranial nerves in the skull base region, typically for neuralgia control or functional neurosurgery.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 61460?
The work RVU for CPT 61460 is 29.48. This code is primarily used by neurosurgery, pain management, functional neurosurgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 61460 used?
Performed for refractory trigeminal neuralgia, glossopharyngeal neuralgia, or other severe neuralgia when decompression unsuccessful or inappropriate. Sacrifices sensory nerve function to relieve pain.
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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.