61576 Skull base/brainstem surgery
Also known as: complex skull base surgery, brainstem approach
Craniotomy with complex skull base approach combined with brainstem or posterior fossa resection for advanced pathology.
In Plain Language
Complex surgery at skull base and brainstem; Posterior fossa tumor surgery
Clinical Context
Performed for advanced or recurrent skull base tumors, vascular malformations, or lesions requiring posterior fossa extension and brainstem exposure.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 53.93 |
| Total RVU | 53.93 |
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 53.93, this code ranks in the 99th percentile among Surgery codes — 6.7x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 61576?
CPT 61576 (Skull base/brainstem surgery) is a Surgery code. Craniotomy with complex skull base approach combined with brainstem or posterior fossa resection for advanced pathology.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 61576?
The work RVU for CPT 61576 is 53.93. This code is primarily used by Neurosurgery, Skull Base Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 61576 used?
Performed for advanced or recurrent skull base tumors, vascular malformations, or lesions requiring posterior fossa extension and brainstem exposure.
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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.