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CPT®
61609

CPT® Code 61609
Deleted

Official Description

Transection or ligation, carotid artery in cavernous sinus; without repair (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 61609 involves the transection or ligation of the carotid artery located within the cavernous sinus, which is a cavity at the base of the skull situated between the brain and the face. This procedure is performed to occlude the carotid artery, effectively stopping blood flow in that specific area. The term 'transection' refers to the cutting or severing of the artery, while 'ligation' indicates the tying off of the artery to prevent blood flow. This procedure is typically indicated in specific clinical scenarios where controlling blood flow is necessary, such as in the management of vascular malformations or certain tumors. It is important to note that this code is used in conjunction with a primary procedure, as it is listed separately and does not include any repair of the artery itself following the transection or ligation.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

Indications for the procedure coded as CPT® 61609 include specific clinical scenarios where the control of blood flow in the carotid artery is necessary. These may involve:

  • Management of Vascular Malformations Conditions such as arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) that require intervention to prevent complications.
  • Tumor Treatment Situations where tumors in the vicinity of the carotid artery necessitate its occlusion to reduce blood supply and facilitate surgical removal or treatment.
  • Hemorrhage Control Instances where there is a need to control bleeding in the cavernous sinus area, which may arise from trauma or other pathological conditions.

2. Procedure

The procedure for CPT® Code 61609 involves several critical steps to ensure the successful transection or ligation of the carotid artery within the cavernous sinus. Each step is essential for achieving the desired outcome while minimizing risks to surrounding structures.

  • Step 1: Anesthesia Administration The procedure begins with the administration of appropriate anesthesia to ensure the patient is comfortable and pain-free during the intervention. This may involve general anesthesia or local anesthesia, depending on the specific circumstances and the physician's preference.
  • Step 2: Surgical Access The surgeon then gains access to the cavernous sinus area, which may involve making an incision in the appropriate location. This step is crucial for visualizing the carotid artery and surrounding anatomical structures.
  • Step 3: Identification of the Carotid Artery Once access is achieved, the surgeon carefully identifies the carotid artery within the cavernous sinus. This step requires precision to avoid damaging adjacent nerves and vessels.
  • Step 4: Transection or Ligation The next step involves either transecting or ligating the carotid artery. Transection entails cutting the artery, while ligation involves tying it off. The choice between these methods depends on the clinical scenario and the surgeon's judgment.
  • Step 5: Closure After the transection or ligation is completed, the surgical site is carefully closed. This may involve suturing the incision and ensuring that the surrounding tissues are properly aligned to promote healing.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care following the transection or ligation of the carotid artery in the cavernous sinus is critical for patient recovery. Patients are typically monitored for any signs of complications, such as bleeding or neurological deficits. Pain management is also an important aspect of post-operative care, and patients may be prescribed analgesics as needed. Follow-up appointments are essential to assess the surgical site and ensure proper healing. Additionally, patients may require imaging studies to evaluate the success of the procedure and monitor for any potential complications that may arise in the future.
Short Descr TRANSECT ARTERY SINUS
Medium Descr TRNSXJ/LIGATION CAROTID ARTERY SINUS W/O REPAIR
Long Descr Transection or ligation, carotid artery in cavernous sinus; without repair (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)
Status Code Active Code
Global Days ZZZ - Code Related to Another Service
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 0 - Physician Service Code
Multiple Procedures (51) 0 - No payment adjustment rules for multiple procedures apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 0 - 150% payment adjustment for bilateral procedures does NOT apply.
Physician Supervisions 9 - 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) 2 - Team surgeons permitted; pay by report.
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 Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 59 - Other OR procedures on vessels of head and neck
Date
Action
Notes
2015-01-01 Deleted Code deleted
2011-01-01 Changed Short description changed.
1994-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 1994.
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