How To Use CPT Code 61607

CPT 61607 describes the resection or excision of neoplastic, vascular, or infectious lesions in the parasellar area, cavernous sinus, clivus, or midline skull base. 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 61607?

CPT 61607 can be used to describe the surgical removal of neoplastic, vascular, or infectious lesions located in the parasellar area, cavernous sinus, clivus, or midline skull base. This code is used when a provider performs a partial or complete removal of these lesions, which are located outside the dura mater, the tough outer membrane covering the brain or within the spine.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 61607 is: ‘Resection or excision of neoplastic, vascular or infectious lesion of parasellar area, cavernous sinus, clivus or midline skull base; extradural.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider performs a surgical procedure to remove a neoplastic, vascular, or infectious lesion located in the parasellar area, cavernous sinus, clivus, or midline skull base.
2. The procedure involves the resection or excision of the lesion, either partially or completely.
3. The lesion is located outside the dura mater, which is the tough outer membrane covering the brain or within the spine.
4. The surgical approach required to access the lesion may vary depending on its location and size.
5. The provider ensures that all necessary tissue defects are addressed and removed during the procedure.
6. The procedure may involve the use of specialized instruments and techniques to safely remove the lesion without causing damage to surrounding structures.
7. The provider may also perform additional procedures, such as internal fixation or bone grafting, if necessary.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 61607 is used for the resection or excision of neoplastic, vascular, or infectious lesions located in the parasellar area, cavernous sinus, clivus, or midline skull base. These lesions may be causing symptoms or posing a risk to the patient’s health. The procedure is performed outside the dura mater, which is the tough outer membrane covering the brain or within the spine. The provider must ensure that the lesion is properly identified and that the surgical approach is appropriate for its location and size.

5. When to use CPT code 61607

CPT code 61607 should be used when a provider performs the resection or excision of neoplastic, vascular, or infectious lesions located in the parasellar area, cavernous sinus, clivus, or midline skull base. This code is specifically for lesions that are located outside the dura mater, which is the tough outer membrane covering the brain or within the spine. It is important to accurately document the location and nature of the lesion to support the use of this code.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 61607, the provider must document the following information:

• Description of the lesion, including whether it is neoplastic, vascular, or infectious
• Location of the lesion in the parasellar area, cavernous sinus, clivus, or midline skull base
• Details of the surgical procedure performed, including the approach used and any additional procedures performed
• Extent of the resection or excision, whether partial or complete
• Any complications or unexpected findings encountered during the procedure
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 61607, ensure that the procedure performed meets the criteria described in the official description. The lesion must be located in the parasellar area, cavernous sinus, clivus, or midline skull base, and the procedure must be performed outside the dura mater. It is important to accurately document the details of the procedure and any additional procedures performed. If the surgical approach requires a separate code, it should be reported in addition to CPT 61607. Review payer guidelines for any specific billing requirements or modifiers that may be necessary.

8. Historical information

CPT 61607 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1994. It was later added to the Inpatient Only (IPO) list for Medicare in 2017.

9. Examples

1. A surgeon performs the resection of a neoplastic lesion located in the parasellar area, outside the dura mater.
2. A neurosurgeon excises an infectious lesion in the cavernous sinus, ensuring complete removal of the lesion.
3. A provider performs the resection of a vascular lesion in the clivus, using a specialized surgical approach to minimize damage to surrounding structures.
4. A surgeon removes a neoplastic lesion in the midline skull base, performing a partial excision to alleviate symptoms and reduce the risk of further complications.
5. A neurosurgeon performs the excision of an infectious lesion in the parasellar area, ensuring that all affected tissue is removed to prevent further spread of infection.
6. A provider performs the resection of a vascular lesion in the cavernous sinus, using advanced imaging techniques to guide the surgical approach.
7. A surgeon excises a neoplastic lesion in the clivus, performing a complete removal to achieve optimal patient outcomes.
8. A neurosurgeon removes an infectious lesion in the midline skull base, employing meticulous surgical techniques to minimize the risk of complications.