CPT® Code 61120

A burr hole is a small opening created in the skull, specifically for the purpose of accessing the ventricles of the brain. This procedure involves making an incision in the scalp, which is then flapped forward to expose the underlying bone. A specialized surgical drill or perforator is used to create the burr hole, allowing access to the dura mater, the protective membrane surrounding the brain. The dura may be incised or perforated using a technique known as pinhole cautery, which minimizes damage to surrounding tissues. Once access to the ventricles is achieved, a needle is inserted to aspirate cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This procedure may also include the injection of various substances such as gas, contrast media, dye, or radioactive material into the ventricles. As the CSF is withdrawn, an equal volume of the injected substance is instilled to ensure that the pressure within the ventricles remains stable. Following the injection, the patient's head is rotated to facilitate the even distribution of the contrast material throughout the ventricles. This step is crucial for imaging purposes, as it allows for the acquisition of separately reportable radiographs that can provide valuable diagnostic information.