61575 Skull base/brainstem surgery
Also known as: skull base craniotomy, multifossa approach
Craniotomy using skull base approach (combined anterior, middle, or posterior fossa) for tumor or vascular lesion excision.
In Plain Language
Brain surgery using skull base approach; Complex brain tumor surgery
Clinical Context
Performed for complex skull base lesions requiring access to multiple compartments. Includes large meningiomas, chordomas, clival tumors, and vascular malformations.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 35.65 |
| Total RVU | 35.65 |
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 35.65, this code ranks in the 96th percentile among Surgery codes — 4.5x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 61575?
CPT 61575 (Skull base/brainstem surgery) is a Surgery code. Craniotomy using skull base approach (combined anterior, middle, or posterior fossa) for tumor or vascular lesion excision.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 61575?
The work RVU for CPT 61575 is 35.65. This code is primarily used by Neurosurgery, Skull Base Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 61575 used?
Performed for complex skull base lesions requiring access to multiple compartments. Includes large meningiomas, chordomas, clival tumors, and vascular malformations.
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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.