61790 Treat trigeminal nerve
Also known as: trigeminal nerve treatment, microvascular decompression
Surgical approach and treatment of trigeminal nerve including decompression, rhizotomy, or other therapeutic intervention.
In Plain Language
Surgery to relieve trigeminal nerve pain
Clinical Context
Performed for trigeminal neuralgia or glossopharyngeal neuralgia. Includes microvascular decompression or nerve section.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 11.31 |
| Total RVU | 11.31 |
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 11.31, this code ranks in the 63rd percentile among Surgery codes — 1.4x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 61790?
CPT 61790 (Treat trigeminal nerve) is a Surgery code. Surgical approach and treatment of trigeminal nerve including decompression, rhizotomy, or other therapeutic intervention.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 61790?
The work RVU for CPT 61790 is 11.31. This code is primarily used by Neurosurgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 61790 used?
Performed for trigeminal neuralgia or glossopharyngeal neuralgia. Includes microvascular decompression or nerve section.
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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.