61541 Incision of brain tissue
Also known as: cortical resection with incision, selective amygdalohippocampectomy
Craniotomy or craniectomy with surgical incision into brain tissue and resection or removal of brain parenchyma for seizure control or other therapeutic purposes.
In Plain Language
surgical cut and removal of brain tissue for seizure control
Clinical Context
Used for selective resections within temporal lobe (amygdalohippocampectomy) or other selective tissue removal procedures targeting specific anatomic structures.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 30.17 |
| Total RVU | 30.17 |
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 30.17, this code ranks in the 93rd percentile among Surgery codes — 3.8x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 61541?
CPT 61541 (Incision of brain tissue) is a Surgery code. Craniotomy or craniectomy with surgical incision into brain tissue and resection or removal of brain parenchyma for seizure control or other therapeutic purposes.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 61541?
The work RVU for CPT 61541 is 30.17. This code is primarily used by neurosurgery, epilepsy surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 61541 used?
Used for selective resections within temporal lobe (amygdalohippocampectomy) or other selective tissue removal procedures targeting specific anatomic structures.
Track This Code in RVU Edge
Log procedures, calculate wRVUs, and benchmark against national data — all in one app.
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.