How To Use CPT Code 61800

CPT 61800 describes the application of a stereotactic headframe for stereotactic radiosurgery. 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 61800?

CPT 61800 can be used to describe the application of a stereotactic headframe for stereotactic radiosurgery. This code is used when a provider attaches a head frame to a patient’s head prior to the surgery. The head frame is used to guide the procedure and precisely locate the target area for the surgery. This service is commonly performed for brain biopsies, drainage of lesions, or placement of catheters or electrodes.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 61800 is: ‘Application of stereotactic headframe for stereotactic radiosurgery (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure).’ This code should be used in conjunction with the primary procedure codes 61796 and 61798.

3. Procedure

1. The provider assembles the stereotactic headframe and places a holding strap on it.
2. The patient’s skin is cleansed, and a local anesthetic is applied to the location where the fixation screws will enter the skin.
3. The provider places the head frame on the patient’s head, centers and levels it, and turns the fixation screws to anchor it to the skull.
4. The holding strap is removed, and fiducial markers are placed on the frame.
5. Imaging scans are taken to identify and locate the target area for surgery.
6. Special instruments are attached to the stereotactic frame to provide guidance during the surgical procedure.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 61800 is performed when a provider needs to apply a stereotactic headframe to a patient’s head prior to stereotactic radiosurgery. This procedure is commonly done for brain biopsies, drainage of lesions, or placement of catheters or electrodes. The headframe is used as a measuring guide to determine the coordinates for targeting an abnormality and to position the head for surgery.

5. When to use CPT code 61800

CPT code 61800 should be used when a provider applies a stereotactic headframe to a patient’s head prior to stereotactic radiosurgery. It should be reported separately in addition to the code for the primary procedure. This code should not be reported if the primary procedure does not involve the use of a stereotactic headframe.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 61800, the provider must document the following information:

• Reason for the application of the stereotactic headframe
• Details of the procedure, including the assembly of the headframe, placement of the holding strap, cleansing of the patient’s skin, application of local anesthetic, placement of the headframe, and attachment of fiducial markers
• Date and time of the procedure
• Imaging scans taken and their results
• Details of any additional instruments attached to the headframe
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 61800, ensure that the procedure involves the application of a stereotactic headframe for stereotactic radiosurgery. This code should be listed separately in addition to the code for the primary procedure. It should not be reported if the primary procedure does not involve the use of a stereotactic headframe. It is important to follow the specific guidelines provided by the payer regarding the reporting of this code.

8. Historical information

CPT 61800 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2009. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A neurosurgeon applies a stereotactic headframe to a patient’s head prior to performing a brain biopsy.
2. A radiologist attaches a headframe to a patient’s head for the drainage of a brain lesion.
3. A neurologist places a stereotactic headframe on a patient’s head before the placement of a catheter for the delivery of medication.
4. A neurosurgeon applies a headframe to a patient’s head prior to the placement of electrodes for deep brain stimulation.
5. A neurologist attaches a stereotactic headframe to a patient’s head before performing stereotactic radiosurgery for the treatment of a brain tumor.
6. A neurosurgeon applies a headframe to a patient’s head prior to the placement of a ventricular catheter for the drainage of cerebrospinal fluid.
7. A radiologist attaches a stereotactic headframe to a patient’s head before performing a brain biopsy.
8. A neurologist places a headframe on a patient’s head prior to the placement of electrodes for the monitoring of brain activity.
9. A neurosurgeon applies a stereotactic headframe to a patient’s head prior to the placement of a deep brain stimulation device.
10. A radiologist attaches a headframe to a patient’s head for the drainage of a brain abscess.