How To Use CPT Code 61531

CPT 61531 describes the subdural implantation of strip electrodes through one or more burr or trephine holes for long-term seizure monitoring. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 61531?

CPT 61531 can be used to describe the surgical procedure in which a provider places strip electrodes in the subdural space for long-term seizure monitoring. This code is used when the provider creates one or more burr or trephine holes in the skull to gain access to the subdural space and then implants the electrodes.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 61531 is: ‘Subdural implantation of strip electrodes through one or more burr or trephine hole(s) for long-term seizure monitoring.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient and administers anesthesia.
2. Using a burr drill or trephine, the provider creates one or more holes in the skull to access the subdural space.
3. The provider carefully places strip electrodes in the subdural space below the dura mater, the outermost layer of connective tissue covering the brain.
4. The provider secures the bone flap back into its original position using plates, wires, or sutures.
5. The provider applies a sterile dressing to cover the wound.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 61531 is performed on patients who require long-term seizure monitoring. The procedure involves the subdural implantation of strip electrodes through one or more burr or trephine holes. It is important to note that this code is not used for stereotactic implantation of electrodes, which has its own specific code (61760). Additionally, for the excision of intracranial arteriovenous malformation, a different set of codes (61680-61692) should be used.

5. When to use CPT code 61531

CPT code 61531 should be used when a provider performs the subdural implantation of strip electrodes through one or more burr or trephine holes for long-term seizure monitoring. It is important to accurately document the procedure and ensure that it meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 61531, the provider must document the following information:

• Indication for the procedure and the need for long-term seizure monitoring
• Details of the procedure, including the number of burr or trephine holes created and the placement of strip electrodes
• Any additional procedures performed during the same session
• Date of the procedure
• Start and end time of the procedure
• Any complications or adverse events
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 61531, ensure that the procedure meets the specific criteria outlined in the code description. It is important to accurately document the procedure and any additional services provided during the same session. Additionally, be aware of any Medicare changes or specific billing requirements that may apply.

8. Historical information

CPT 61531 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1993. There have been a few changes to the code over the years, including updates in 2008 and 2010. In 2017, it was added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare.

9. Examples

1. A neurosurgeon performing the subdural implantation of strip electrodes through two burr holes for long-term seizure monitoring.
2. A neurologist implanting strip electrodes through a trephine hole for long-term seizure monitoring in a patient with epilepsy.
3. A neurosurgeon placing strip electrodes through three burr holes for long-term seizure monitoring in a patient with refractory seizures.
4. A pediatric neurologist performing the subdural implantation of strip electrodes through a burr hole for long-term seizure monitoring in a child with developmental delay and suspected epilepsy.
5. A neurosurgeon implanting strip electrodes through two trephine holes for long-term seizure monitoring in a patient with a history of traumatic brain injury.
6. A neurologist performing the subdural implantation of strip electrodes through a burr hole for long-term seizure monitoring in a patient with focal seizures.
7. A neurosurgeon placing strip electrodes through four burr holes for long-term seizure monitoring in a patient with drug-resistant epilepsy.
8. A pediatric neurologist implanting strip electrodes through a trephine hole for long-term seizure monitoring in an infant with infantile spasms.
9. A neurosurgeon performing the subdural implantation of strip electrodes through three burr holes for long-term seizure monitoring in a patient with a brain tumor.
10. A neurologist implanting strip electrodes through a trephine hole for long-term seizure monitoring in a patient with nocturnal seizures.