2025 CPT code 61800
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Surgery - Surgical Procedures on the Nervous System Surgery Feed
Application of stereotactic headframe for stereotactic radiosurgery.
Modifiers are applicable (e.g., 52 for reduced services, 53 for discontinued procedure).
Medical necessity is established by the underlying condition requiring stereotactic intervention, such as a tumor, lesion, or functional disorder. The use of a stereotactic headframe is necessary for precise targeting and accurate delivery of the radiosurgery or other stereotactic procedure.
The neurosurgeon is responsible for applying the stereotactic headframe, ensuring proper placement and secure fixation for accurate targeting during stereotactic radiosurgery.
In simple words: Before brain surgery, a special frame is attached to your head. This helps doctors use scans to pinpoint the exact spot they need to operate on. It's like a GPS for brain surgery.
This add-on procedure involves the application of a stereotactic head frame to the patient's head before stereotactic radiosurgery. The frame is used in conjunction with image scanning to precisely locate the target area for surgery.The provider assembles the frame, places a holding strap, cleanses the skin, and applies local anesthetic. The frame is then positioned, centered, and leveled on the patient's head, with fixation screws tightened to anchor it to the skull.Fiducial markers are placed on the frame for imaging purposes. Instruments are attached to the frame for guidance during the surgical procedure. This service is often used for brain biopsies, lesion drainage, or catheter/electrode placement.
Example 1: A patient with a brain tumor requires stereotactic radiosurgery. Code 61800 is reported for the application of the headframe, along with the appropriate code for the radiosurgery itself (e.g. 61796, 61798)., A patient needs a brain biopsy. The surgeon uses a stereotactic headframe to guide the biopsy needle. Code 61800 is billed for the headframe application, and a separate code is reported for the biopsy procedure., A patient with a cyst in the brain requires drainage. The surgeon utilizes a stereotactic headframe to precisely guide the catheter for drainage. 61800 is reported for the headframe application, along with the appropriate drainage procedure code.
Documentation should include details of headframe application, type of frame used, localization method, and any complications.It should also support the medical necessity of the stereotactic procedure for which the headframe was applied.
- Revenue Code: P1G - Major Procedure - Other
- Specialties:Neurosurgery, Radiation Oncology
- Place of Service:Ambulatory Surgical Center, Hospital, Outpatient Hospital