61526 Removal of brain lesion
Also known as: complex brain lesion resection, deep brain tumor removal
Craniotomy or craniectomy with removal of complex or deep intracranial brain lesion from supratentorial location, requiring advanced techniques.
In Plain Language
complex surgical opening for deep brain tumor
Clinical Context
Performed for intra-axial brain tumors in eloquent or deep locations (thalamus, basal ganglia, brainstem), requiring advanced intraoperative monitoring and surgical techniques.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 52.73 |
| Total RVU | 52.73 |
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 52.73, this code ranks in the 99th percentile among Surgery codes — 6.6x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 61526?
CPT 61526 (Removal of brain lesion) is a Surgery code. Craniotomy or craniectomy with removal of complex or deep intracranial brain lesion from supratentorial location, requiring advanced techniques.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 61526?
The work RVU for CPT 61526 is 52.73. This code is primarily used by neurosurgery, surgical oncology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 61526 used?
Performed for intra-axial brain tumors in eloquent or deep locations (thalamus, basal ganglia, brainstem), requiring advanced intraoperative monitoring and surgical techniques.
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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.