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The CPT® Code 61533 refers to a surgical procedure known as a craniotomy with elevation of a bone flap specifically for the subdural implantation of an electrode array, which is utilized for long-term seizure monitoring. This procedure involves the careful opening of the skull to access the brain's surface, allowing for the placement of an electrode array that consists of multiple rows of electrodes arranged in a square grid. These electrodes are crucial for monitoring electrical activity in the brain over an extended period, which is essential for diagnosing and managing seizure disorders. The procedure begins with an incision in the scalp, followed by the creation of burr holes in the skull. A section of bone, known as a bone flap, is then elevated to provide access to the dura mater, the protective covering of the brain. Once the dura is opened, the electrode array is positioned in the subdural space and tested to ensure proper functionality. After securing the electrode array, the dura is closed, and the bone flap is replaced and secured, followed by layered closure of the scalp. This meticulous approach ensures that the electrodes remain in place for effective long-term monitoring of seizure activity, providing valuable data for the management of epilepsy and other seizure-related conditions.
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The procedure described by CPT® Code 61533 is indicated for patients who require long-term monitoring of seizure activity. This may include individuals with:
The procedure for CPT® Code 61533 involves several critical steps to ensure successful implantation of the electrode array:
Post-procedure care following the implantation of the electrode array involves monitoring the patient for any complications, such as infection or bleeding. Patients may require pain management and should be observed for neurological status changes. Follow-up appointments are essential to assess the functionality of the electrode array and to plan for any further interventions based on the monitoring results. Recovery time may vary, and patients are typically advised on activity restrictions to promote healing and prevent complications.
| Short Descr | IMPLANT BRAIN ELECTRODES | Medium Descr | CRANIOT SUBDURAL IMPLT ELCTRD SEIZURE MONITORING | Long Descr | Craniotomy with elevation of bone flap; for subdural implantation of an electrode array, for long-term seizure monitoring | Status Code | Active Code | Global Days | 090 - Major Surgery | PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) | 0 - Physician Service Code | Multiple Procedures (51) | 2 - Standard payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply. | Bilateral Surgery (50) | 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply. | Physician Supervisions | 09 - Concept does not apply. | Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) | 2 - Payment restriction for assistants at surgery does not apply to this procedure... | Co-Surgeons (62) | 1 - Co-surgeons could be paid, though supporting documentation is required... | Team Surgery (66) | 0 - Team surgeons not permitted for this procedure. | Diagnostic Imaging Family | 99 - Concept Does Not Apply | APC Status Indicator | Inpatient Procedures, not paid under OPPS | Type of Service (TOS) | 2 - Surgery | Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) | P1G - Major procedure - Other | MUE | 2 | CCS Clinical Classification | 9 - Other OR therapeutic nervous system procedures |
This is a primary code that can be used with these additional add-on codes.
| 69990 | Addon Code MPFS Status: Restricted APC N ASC N1 PUB 100 CPT Assistant Article 1Microsurgical techniques, requiring use of operating microscope (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure) |
| 51 | Multiple procedures: when multiple procedures, other than e/m services, physical medicine and rehabilitation services or provision of supplies (eg, vaccines), are performed at the same session by the same individual, the primary procedure or service may be reported as listed. the additional procedure(s) or service(s) may be identified by appending modifier 51 to the additional procedure or service code(s). note: this modifier should not be appended to designated "add-on" codes (see appendix d). | 59 | Distinct procedural service: under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to indicate that a procedure or service was distinct or independent from other non-e/m services performed on the same day. modifier 59 is used to identify procedures/services, other than e/m services, that are not normally reported together, but are appropriate under the circumstances. documentation must support a different session, different procedure or surgery, different site or organ system, separate incision/excision, separate lesion, or separate injury (or area of injury in extensive injuries) not ordinarily encountered or performed on the same day by the same individual. however, when another already established modifier is appropriate it should be used rather than modifier 59. only if no more descriptive modifier is available, and the use of modifier 59 best explains the circumstances, should modifier 59 be used. note: modifier 59 should not be appended to an e/m service. to report a separate and distinct e/m service with a non-e/m service performed on the same date, see modifier 25. | AS | Physician assistant, nurse practitioner, or clinical nurse specialist services for assistant at surgery | GC | This service has been performed in part by a resident under the direction of a teaching physician | RT | Right side (used to identify procedures performed on the right side of the body) |
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| 2008-01-01 | Changed | Code description changed. |
| Pre-1990 | Added | Code added. |
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