61566 Removal of brain tissue
Also known as: brain tissue removal, parenchymal resection
Stereotactic or open craniotomy with removal of parenchymal brain tissue for focal pathology, aspiration, or biopsy.
In Plain Language
Removal of brain tissue; Brain lesion removal
Clinical Context
Used for arteriovenous malformations, cavernomas, gliomas, and other focal lesions requiring tissue resection. May be combined with electrophysiologic mapping.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 31.64 |
| Total RVU | 31.64 |
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 31.64, this code ranks in the 94th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.0x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 61566?
CPT 61566 (Removal of brain tissue) is a Surgery code. Stereotactic or open craniotomy with removal of parenchymal brain tissue for focal pathology, aspiration, or biopsy.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 61566?
The work RVU for CPT 61566 is 31.64. This code is primarily used by Neurosurgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 61566 used?
Used for arteriovenous malformations, cavernomas, gliomas, and other focal lesions requiring tissue resection. May be combined with electrophysiologic mapping.
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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.