61537 Removal of brain tissue
Also known as: temporal lobectomy, brain tissue resection, epilepsy surgery
Craniotomy or craniectomy with removal or resection of brain tissue (parenchyma) from supratentorial location, such as for epilepsy surgery (lobectomy).
In Plain Language
surgical removal of brain tissue for seizure control
Clinical Context
Performed for medically refractory focal epilepsy with identified seizure focus, typically temporal lobe. Requires intraoperative electrocorticography and careful anatomic dissection.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 35.54 |
| Total RVU | 35.54 |
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 35.54, this code ranks in the 95th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.4x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 61537?
CPT 61537 (Removal of brain tissue) is a Surgery code. Craniotomy or craniectomy with removal or resection of brain tissue (parenchyma) from supratentorial location, such as for epilepsy surgery (lobectomy).
What is the wRVU value for CPT 61537?
The work RVU for CPT 61537 is 35.54. This code is primarily used by neurosurgery, epilepsy surgery, functional neurosurgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 61537 used?
Performed for medically refractory focal epilepsy with identified seizure focus, typically temporal lobe. Requires intraoperative electrocorticography and careful anatomic dissection.
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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.