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CPT®
61870

CPT® Code 61870
Deleted

Official Description

Craniectomy for implantation of neurostimulator electrodes, cerebellar, cortical

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 61870 involves a craniectomy, which is a surgical operation where a portion of the skull is removed to access the brain. This specific procedure is performed for the implantation of neurostimulator electrodes, which are devices used to deliver electrical impulses to specific areas of the brain. In this case, the electrodes are placed in the outer part of the cerebellum, a region of the brain that plays a crucial role in motor control and coordination. The incision made in the skull allows the surgeon to carefully navigate to the cerebellum and accurately position the electrodes. This procedure is typically indicated for patients who may benefit from neuromodulation therapies aimed at treating various neurological conditions. The use of neurostimulator electrodes can help in managing symptoms by altering the electrical activity in the targeted brain regions, thereby providing therapeutic benefits to the patient.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure described by CPT® Code 61870 is indicated for patients who require neuromodulation therapy for various neurological conditions. The specific indications for this procedure may include:

  • Neurological Disorders Conditions such as epilepsy, chronic pain syndromes, or movement disorders that may benefit from electrical stimulation of the cerebellum.
  • Symptom Management Patients experiencing debilitating symptoms that have not responded to conventional treatments may be candidates for this procedure.

2. Procedure

The craniectomy for implantation of neurostimulator electrodes involves several critical steps to ensure the successful placement of the electrodes. The procedure can be broken down as follows:

  • Step 1: Anesthesia Administration The patient is placed under general anesthesia to ensure comfort and immobility during the procedure. This is a standard practice for surgeries involving the brain to minimize any discomfort and to allow the surgeon to operate effectively.
  • Step 2: Incision and Craniectomy The surgeon makes a precise incision in the scalp, followed by the removal of a section of the skull, known as a craniectomy. This step is crucial as it provides access to the underlying brain tissue, specifically the cerebellum, where the electrodes will be implanted.
  • Step 3: Electrode Placement Once access to the cerebellum is achieved, the surgeon carefully places the neurostimulator electrodes in the outer part of the cerebellum. This placement is done with precision to ensure that the electrodes are positioned correctly for optimal stimulation of the targeted brain areas.
  • Step 4: Closure After the electrodes are securely placed, the surgeon will close the incision in the skull, typically using plates or screws to secure the bone flap back in place. The scalp incision is then sutured or stapled to promote healing.

3. Post-Procedure

Following the craniectomy and electrode implantation, patients are monitored in a recovery area to ensure they are stable as they awaken from anesthesia. Post-procedure care may include pain management, monitoring for any signs of complications such as infection or bleeding, and ensuring that the patient is able to regain consciousness without any neurological deficits. Patients may also require follow-up appointments to assess the functionality of the implanted electrodes and to make any necessary adjustments to the neurostimulator settings. Rehabilitation may be recommended to help the patient adjust to the changes in their neurological function and to maximize the benefits of the therapy.
Short Descr IMPLANT NEUROELECTRODES
Medium Descr CRNEC IMPLTJ NSTIM ELTRD CEREBELLAR CORTICAL
Long Descr Craniectomy for implantation of neurostimulator electrodes, cerebellar, cortical
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 Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 9 - Other OR therapeutic nervous system procedures
Date
Action
Notes
2020-12-31 Deleted Code deleted.
2015-01-01 Changed Code description changed.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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