61590 Infratemporal approach/skull
Also known as: infratemporal approach, temporal bone approach
Infratemporal approach to skull base lesion with temporal bone drilling and intracranial dissection for tumor removal.
In Plain Language
Surgery through temporal bone to skull base; Ear region skull base surgery
Clinical Context
Provides lateral skull base access for temporal bone tumors, jugular foramen lesions, and lateral brainstem pathology.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 45.86 |
| Total RVU | 45.86 |
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 45.86, this code ranks in the 98th percentile among Surgery codes — 5.7x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 61590?
CPT 61590 (Infratemporal approach/skull) is a Surgery code. Infratemporal approach to skull base lesion with temporal bone drilling and intracranial dissection for tumor removal.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 61590?
The work RVU for CPT 61590 is 45.86. This code is primarily used by Neurosurgery, Otologic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 61590 used?
Provides lateral skull base access for temporal bone tumors, jugular foramen lesions, and lateral brainstem pathology.
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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.