61517 implant brn intrcv chemotx agt
Also known as: intrathecal chemotherapy implant, Ommaya reservoir for chemo
Implantation of brain catheter for intraventricular (within ventricles) delivery of chemotherapy agent(s), typically for CNS lymphoma or leukemia.
In Plain Language
implant of drug delivery system for brain cancer treatment
Clinical Context
Used for chemotherapy delivery in central nervous system lymphoma, acute lymphoblastic leukemia with CNS involvement, or other malignancies. Often combined with systemic chemotherapy.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 1.35 |
| Total RVU | 1.35 |
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. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 1.35, this code ranks in the 7th percentile among Surgery codes — 5.9x below the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 61517?
CPT 61517 (implant brn intrcv chemotx agt) is a Surgery code. Implantation of brain catheter for intraventricular (within ventricles) delivery of chemotherapy agent(s), typically for CNS lymphoma or leukemia.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 61517?
The work RVU for CPT 61517 is 1.35. This code is primarily used by neurosurgery, oncology, neuro-oncology.
When is CPT 61517 used?
Used for chemotherapy delivery in central nervous system lymphoma, acute lymphoblastic leukemia with CNS involvement, or other malignancies. Often combined with systemic chemotherapy.
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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.