61570 Remove foreign body brain
Also known as: foreign body removal, bullet removal
Craniotomy with removal of penetrating foreign body or metallic object embedded in brain parenchyma or ventricles.
In Plain Language
Removal of object lodged in brain; Penetrating head injury surgery
Clinical Context
Performed for penetrating head trauma with retained projectile, glass, or metallic fragments. Timing and approach depend on depth and location of foreign body.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 25.85 |
| Total RVU | 25.85 |
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 25.85, this code ranks in the 90th percentile among Surgery codes — 3.2x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 61570?
CPT 61570 (Remove foreign body brain) is a Surgery code. Craniotomy with removal of penetrating foreign body or metallic object embedded in brain parenchyma or ventricles.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 61570?
The work RVU for CPT 61570 is 25.85. This code is primarily used by Neurosurgery, Trauma Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 61570 used?
Performed for penetrating head trauma with retained projectile, glass, or metallic fragments. Timing and approach depend on depth and location of foreign body.
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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.