62117 Reduction of skull defect
Also known as: large skull defect reduction, major cranial defect repair
Reduction of cranial or skull defect greater than 5 centimeters in diameter using bone graft or bone flap repositioning.
In Plain Language
large skull hole repair; major cranial bone defect treatment
Clinical Context
Used for correction of large congenital or acquired skull defects exceeding 5 centimeters, often requiring bone grafting.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 27.64 |
| Total RVU | 27.64 |
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 27.64, this code ranks in the 91st percentile among Surgery codes — 3.5x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 62117?
CPT 62117 (Reduction of skull defect) is a Surgery code. Reduction of cranial or skull defect greater than 5 centimeters in diameter using bone graft or bone flap repositioning.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 62117?
The work RVU for CPT 62117 is 27.64. This code is primarily used by Neurosurgery, Reconstructive Surgery. It has a 90-day global period.
When is CPT 62117 used?
Used for correction of large congenital or acquired skull defects exceeding 5 centimeters, often requiring bone grafting.
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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.