61548 Removal of pituitary gland
Also known as: pituitary ablation, hypophysectomy
Hypophysectomy or pituitary gland ablation performed via open transfrontal or infratemporal approach for treatment of endocrine disorder.
In Plain Language
Surgical removal of the pituitary gland; Pituitary gland destruction for hormone control
Clinical Context
Performed for hormone-secreting pituitary adenomas refractory to medical management or when transsphenoidal approach not feasible. Less common in modern practice due to efficacy of transsphenoidal approach.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 22.79 |
| Total RVU | 22.79 |
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 22.79, this code ranks in the 86th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.9x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 61548?
CPT 61548 (Removal of pituitary gland) is a Surgery code. Hypophysectomy or pituitary gland ablation performed via open transfrontal or infratemporal approach for treatment of endocrine disorder.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 61548?
The work RVU for CPT 61548 is 22.79. This code is primarily used by Neurosurgery, Endocrinology. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 61548 used?
Performed for hormone-secreting pituitary adenomas refractory to medical management or when transsphenoidal approach not feasible. Less common in modern practice due to efficacy of transsphenoidal approach.
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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.