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CPT®
61875

CPT® Code 61875
Deleted

Official Description

Craniectomy for implantation of neurostimulator electrodes, cerebellar; subcortical

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The procedure described by CPT® Code 61875 involves a craniectomy, which is a surgical operation where a portion of the skull is removed to access the brain. In this specific case, the focus is on the implantation of neurostimulator electrodes within the cerebellum, particularly in the subcortical region. The cerebellum is a critical part of the brain that plays a significant role in motor control, coordination, and balance. By placing neurotransmitter electrodes in this area, the procedure aims to modulate neural activity, which can be beneficial for various neurological conditions. The incision made in the skull allows the surgeon to carefully navigate to the targeted area of the brain, ensuring precise placement of the electrodes to achieve the desired therapeutic effects. This procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and requires careful planning and execution to minimize risks and optimize patient outcomes.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The procedure associated with CPT® Code 61875 is indicated for specific neurological conditions that may benefit from the modulation of cerebellar activity through neurostimulation. These indications may include:

  • Movement Disorders Conditions such as essential tremor or dystonia that affect motor control and coordination.
  • Chronic Pain Syndromes Situations where traditional pain management strategies have failed, and neuromodulation may provide relief.
  • Seizure Disorders Cases where seizures are not adequately controlled by medication, and neuromodulation could help in reducing seizure frequency.

2. Procedure

The procedure for CPT® Code 61875 involves several critical steps to ensure the successful implantation of neurostimulator electrodes in the cerebellum. The steps are as follows:

  • Step 1: Anesthesia Administration The patient is placed under general anesthesia to ensure comfort and immobility during the procedure. This is crucial for the safety of both the patient and the surgical team.
  • Step 2: Incision and Craniectomy A precise incision is made in the scalp, followed by the removal of a section of the skull (craniectomy) to expose the underlying brain tissue. This step requires careful technique to minimize damage to surrounding structures.
  • Step 3: Electrode Placement Once the cerebellum is accessible, the surgeon carefully places the neurostimulator electrodes in the subcortical region of the cerebellum. This placement is critical for achieving the desired therapeutic effects and is performed with great precision.
  • Step 4: Closure After the electrodes are securely positioned, the surgical site is closed. The bone flap is typically replaced, and the scalp incision is sutured to promote healing.

3. Post-Procedure

Following the procedure, patients are monitored in a recovery area until the effects of anesthesia wear off. Post-operative care includes managing pain, monitoring for any signs of complications, and ensuring proper healing of the surgical site. Patients may require follow-up visits to assess the functionality of the implanted electrodes and to make any necessary adjustments to the neurostimulator settings. Rehabilitation may also be recommended to help the patient regain strength and coordination as they recover from the surgery.
Short Descr IMPLANT NEUROELECTRODES
Medium Descr CRNEC IMPLTJ NSTIM ELTRD CEREBELLAR SUBCORTICAL
Long Descr Craniectomy for implantation of neurostimulator electrodes, cerebellar; subcortical
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 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) 0 - Co-surgeons not permitted for this procedure.
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) none
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 9 - Other OR therapeutic nervous system procedures
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2015-01-01 Deleted Code deleted
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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