2025 CPT code 61545
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Surgical Procedures on the Nervous System - Craniectomy or Craniotomy Procedures Surgery Feed
Craniotomy with bone flap elevation for craniopharyngioma excision.
Modifiers may apply depending on the circumstances of the procedure (e.g., 59 for a distinct procedural service, 22 for increased procedural services).Consult the CPT manual and payer-specific guidelines for modifier application.
Medical necessity is established by clinical symptoms (e.g., hormonal imbalances, visual deficits, neurological dysfunction) consistent with craniopharyngioma, confirmed by radiological imaging. The procedure is medically necessary to remove the tumor to alleviate symptoms and prevent further neurological compromise.
The neurosurgeon is responsible for pre-operative planning, performing the craniotomy (including bone flap elevation), excising the craniopharyngioma, managing any bleeding or fluid, repairing the dura, replacing and securing the bone flap, and closing the wound. Post-operative care may involve monitoring for complications and managing pain.
In simple words: The surgeon removes a piece of skull bone to take out a non-cancerous brain tumor near the pituitary gland. After removing the tumor, the surgeon closes the opening in the skull and covers the wound.
This procedure involves a craniotomy, where a portion of the skull bone is removed (bone flap elevation) to access and excise a craniopharyngioma, a benign tumor near the pituitary gland that may extend into the hypothalamus.After tumor removal, excess fluid or blood is drained, tissue layers are sutured, the bone flap is repositioned and secured (plates, wires, or sutures), and the wound is dressed.
Example 1: A 45-year-old patient presents with visual disturbances and hormonal imbalances. Imaging reveals a craniopharyngioma near the pituitary gland.A craniotomy with bone flap elevation is performed to resect the tumor. , A 10-year-old patient exhibits symptoms of growth retardation and diabetes insipidus. MRI shows a large craniopharyngioma compressing the hypothalamus.A craniotomy with bone flap elevation is performed, with the procedure including meticulous dissection to preserve surrounding brain tissue. , A 60-year-old patient with a history of headaches and impaired vision undergoes surgery for a craniopharyngioma. Due to the size and location of the tumor, a craniotomy with bone flap elevation is necessary, which requires the use of neuronavigation technology for precise resection.
Preoperative imaging (MRI, CT), operative report detailing the craniotomy technique, tumor size and location, extent of resection, intraoperative findings (bleeding, CSF leak), postoperative neurological exam, pathology report confirming the diagnosis.
** This code is used for craniotomies where a bone flap is elevated to excise a craniopharyngioma. The complexity of the procedure can vary depending on the size, location, and characteristics of the tumor.Careful documentation is crucial for accurate coding and reimbursement.
- Revenue Code: P1G (MAJOR PROCEDURE - OTHER)
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Neurosurgery
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center