61533 Implant brain electrodes
Also known as: additional electrode placement, electrode repositioning
Craniotomy or craniectomy with placement of additional or repositioned electrodes for intracranial recording or stimulation.
In Plain Language
surgical placement of additional recording device
Clinical Context
Used when initial electrode grid or strip placement requires expansion, repositioning, or addition of electrodes for better seizure localization or functional mapping.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 20.92 |
| Total RVU | 20.92 |
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 20.92, this code ranks in the 83rd percentile among Surgery codes — 2.6x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 61533?
CPT 61533 (Implant brain electrodes) is a Surgery code. Craniotomy or craniectomy with placement of additional or repositioned electrodes for intracranial recording or stimulation.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 61533?
The work RVU for CPT 61533 is 20.92. This code is primarily used by neurosurgery, epilepsy surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 61533 used?
Used when initial electrode grid or strip placement requires expansion, repositioning, or addition of electrodes for better seizure localization or functional mapping.
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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.