61720 Incise skull/brain surgery
Also known as: brain incision, hematoma aspiration
Craniotomy with incision into brain parenchyma for treatment or aspiration of intracranial mass or hematoma.
In Plain Language
Opening skull and draining brain fluid collection
Clinical Context
Performed for intracerebral hemorrhage evacuation, abscess drainage, or cyst aspiration requiring direct parenchymal access.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 17.18 |
| Total RVU | 17.18 |
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 17.18, this code ranks in the 78th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.1x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 61720?
CPT 61720 (Incise skull/brain surgery) is a Surgery code. Craniotomy with incision into brain parenchyma for treatment or aspiration of intracranial mass or hematoma.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 61720?
The work RVU for CPT 61720 is 17.18. This code is primarily used by Neurosurgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 61720 used?
Performed for intracerebral hemorrhage evacuation, abscess drainage, or cyst aspiration requiring direct parenchymal access.
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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.