61539 Removal of brain tissue
Also known as: brainstem resection, infratentorial tissue removal
Craniotomy or craniectomy with removal or resection of brain tissue from infratentorial/brainstem location for seizure control or lesion removal.
In Plain Language
surgical removal of lower brain tissue
Clinical Context
Rarely performed due to critical nature of brainstem; typically reserved for hemorrhagic cavernomas or AVM in brainstem with refractory seizures or stroke risk.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 33.42 |
| Total RVU | 33.42 |
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 33.42, this code ranks in the 95th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 61539?
CPT 61539 (Removal of brain tissue) is a Surgery code. Craniotomy or craniectomy with removal or resection of brain tissue from infratentorial/brainstem location for seizure control or lesion removal.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 61539?
The work RVU for CPT 61539 is 33.42. This code is primarily used by neurosurgery, vascular neurosurgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 61539 used?
Rarely performed due to critical nature of brainstem; typically reserved for hemorrhagic cavernomas or AVM in brainstem with refractory seizures or stroke risk.
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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.