61571 Incise skull for brain wound
Also known as: hematoma evacuation, acute subdural drainage, epidural clot removal
Craniotomy for evacuation of intracranial hematoma from epidural, subdural, or intracerebral collections due to acute trauma.
In Plain Language
Removal of blood clot from brain; Draining brain bleed
Clinical Context
Emergency procedure for traumatic intracranial hemorrhage with mass effect and neurologic compromise. Time-critical intervention to reduce mortality.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 27.71 |
| Total RVU | 27.71 |
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 27.71, this code ranks in the 91st percentile among Surgery codes — 3.5x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 61571?
CPT 61571 (Incise skull for brain wound) is a Surgery code. Craniotomy for evacuation of intracranial hematoma from epidural, subdural, or intracerebral collections due to acute trauma.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 61571?
The work RVU for CPT 61571 is 27.71. This code is primarily used by Neurosurgery, Trauma Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 61571 used?
Emergency procedure for traumatic intracranial hemorrhage with mass effect and neurologic compromise. Time-critical intervention to reduce mortality.
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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.