How To Use CPT Code 61582

CPT 61582 describes the craniofacial approach to the anterior cranial fossa, specifically for extradural lesions or defects. 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 61582?

CPT 61582 is used to describe the craniofacial approach to the anterior cranial fossa, specifically for extradural lesions or defects. This procedure involves accessing the base of the skull through a craniofacial approach, which may include a unilateral or bifrontal craniotomy, elevation of frontal lobe(s), and osteotomy of the base of the anterior cranial fossa. The selection of this approach depends on the location and size of the lesion or defect.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 61582 is: ‘Craniofacial approach to anterior cranial fossa; extradural, including unilateral or bifrontal craniotomy, elevation of frontal lobe(s), osteotomy of base of anterior cranial fossa.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider performs a craniofacial approach to access the anterior cranial fossa.
2. A unilateral or bifrontal craniotomy is performed to expose the extradural lesion or defect.
3. The frontal lobe(s) is elevated to gain access to the base of the anterior cranial fossa.
4. Osteotomy of the base of the anterior cranial fossa is performed to further expose the lesion or defect.
5. The provider completes any necessary procedures, such as excision or repair, specific to the lesion or defect.
6. The surgical site is closed, and appropriate post-operative care is provided.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 61582 is used for patients who require a craniofacial approach to access an extradural lesion or defect at the base of the skull. This approach is typically performed for conditions that involve the skull and facial bones, such as tumors or defects. The specific circumstances for using this code depend on the location and size of the lesion or defect, as well as the need for a craniofacial approach.

5. When to use CPT code 61582

CPT code 61582 should be used when the provider performs a craniofacial approach to access an extradural lesion or defect at the base of the anterior cranial fossa. This code is appropriate when the procedure involves a unilateral or bifrontal craniotomy, elevation of frontal lobe(s), and osteotomy of the base of the anterior cranial fossa. It is important to accurately document the specific details of the procedure to support the use of this code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 61582, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the craniofacial approach and the need for accessing the anterior cranial fossa
• Details of the specific procedures performed, including the type of craniotomy, elevation of frontal lobe(s), and osteotomy of the base of the anterior cranial fossa
• Description of the lesion or defect being addressed
• Any additional procedures performed, such as excision or repair
• Post-operative care provided
• Signature of the provider

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 61582, ensure that the procedure meets the criteria for a craniofacial approach to the anterior cranial fossa with extradural involvement. It is important to accurately document the specific procedures performed and any additional services provided. CPT code 61582 should be reported separately from other surgeries, repairs, or reconstructions. If additional information is needed to determine the correct code, it is appropriate to query the provider for clarification.

8. Historical information

CPT 61582 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1994. The code has not undergone any updates since its addition. In 2017, it was added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare reimbursement purposes.

9. Examples

1. A patient undergoes a craniofacial approach to the anterior cranial fossa for the removal of an extradural tumor.
2. A provider performs a unilateral craniotomy, elevation of frontal lobe(s), and osteotomy of the base of the anterior cranial fossa to repair an extradural defect.
3. A craniofacial approach is used to access an extradural lesion at the base of the skull, and the provider performs a bifrontal craniotomy, elevation of frontal lobe(s), and osteotomy of the base of the anterior cranial fossa.