61518 Removal of brain lesion
Also known as: brain lesion resection, supratentorial lesion removal
Craniotomy or craniectomy with removal of brain lesion(s) from supratentorial location, more extensive or complex than basic tumor resection.
In Plain Language
surgical opening to remove brain abnormality
Clinical Context
Performed for various supratentorial brain lesions including malignant tumors, vascular malformations, cavernomas, or complex lesions requiring more extensive surgery than standard tumor resection.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 38.89 |
| Total RVU | 38.89 |
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 38.89, this code ranks in the 97th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.9x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 61518?
CPT 61518 (Removal of brain lesion) is a Surgery code. Craniotomy or craniectomy with removal of brain lesion(s) from supratentorial location, more extensive or complex than basic tumor resection.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 61518?
The work RVU for CPT 61518 is 38.89. This code is primarily used by neurosurgery, surgical oncology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 61518 used?
Performed for various supratentorial brain lesions including malignant tumors, vascular malformations, cavernomas, or complex lesions requiring more extensive surgery than standard tumor resection.
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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.