61591 Infratemporal approach/skull
Also known as: extended infratemporal approach
Extended infratemporal approach with additional resection of intracranial pathology or combined intradural/epidural disease.
In Plain Language
Extended temporal bone skull base surgery
Clinical Context
Performed for complex jugular foramen tumors, petroclival meningiomas, or epidermoid cysts requiring extended intracranial dissection.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 45.84 |
| Total RVU | 45.84 |
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 45.84, 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 61591?
CPT 61591 (Infratemporal approach/skull) is a Surgery code. Extended infratemporal approach with additional resection of intracranial pathology or combined intradural/epidural disease.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 61591?
The work RVU for CPT 61591 is 45.84. This code is primarily used by Neurosurgery, Otologic Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 61591 used?
Performed for complex jugular foramen tumors, petroclival meningiomas, or epidermoid cysts requiring extended intracranial dissection.
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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.