61536 Removal of brain lesion
Also known as: complex posterior fossa resection, advanced infratentorial surgery
Craniotomy or craniectomy with removal of complex intracranial brain lesion(s) from infratentorial location, requiring advanced surgical techniques.
In Plain Language
surgical opening for complex lower brain tumor
Clinical Context
Performed for complex infratentorial tumors with significant vascular involvement, infiltration of vital structures, or requiring advanced neuromonitoring.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 36.78 |
| Total RVU | 36.78 |
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 36.78, this code ranks in the 96th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.6x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 61536?
CPT 61536 (Removal of brain lesion) is a Surgery code. Craniotomy or craniectomy with removal of complex intracranial brain lesion(s) from infratentorial location, requiring advanced surgical techniques.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 61536?
The work RVU for CPT 61536 is 36.78. This code is primarily used by neurosurgery, surgical oncology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 61536 used?
Performed for complex infratentorial tumors with significant vascular involvement, infiltration of vital structures, or requiring advanced neuromonitoring.
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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.