61520 Removal of brain lesion
Also known as: intracranial mass resection, brain tumor removal
Craniotomy or craniectomy with removal of an intracranial mass or lesion from supratentorial location, often representing more extensive resection.
In Plain Language
surgical opening for extensive brain tumor removal
Clinical Context
Performed for large or complex supratentorial brain tumors, infiltrative gliomas, or other extensive intracranial masses. May require multiple staging procedures.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 55.66 |
| Total RVU | 55.66 |
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 55.66, this code ranks in the 99th percentile among Surgery codes — 7.0x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 61520?
CPT 61520 (Removal of brain lesion) is a Surgery code. Craniotomy or craniectomy with removal of an intracranial mass or lesion from supratentorial location, often representing more extensive resection.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 61520?
The work RVU for CPT 61520 is 55.66. This code is primarily used by neurosurgery, surgical oncology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 61520 used?
Performed for large or complex supratentorial brain tumors, infiltrative gliomas, or other extensive intracranial masses. May require multiple staging procedures.
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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.