CPT® Code 62000

A depressed skull fracture is a type of injury characterized by a portion of the skull being pushed inward due to a high-energy impact, typically from a blunt object. This injury can occur from various incidents, such as falls, vehicle accidents, or physical assaults. The fracture may be classified as either open or closed; an open fracture involves a break in the skin, while a closed fracture maintains the integrity of the skin at the fracture site. Depressed skull fractures can lead to serious complications, including loss of consciousness and potential intracranial injuries, such as epidural or subdural hematomas, as well as dural tearing. The CPT® Code 62000 specifically refers to the elevation of a simple, closed depressed skull fracture without any associated dural tear. In this procedure, a surgical incision, often in a lazy-S or horseshoe shape, is made over the depressed area to expose the bone. The surgeon then elevates the depressed bone fragment and inspects the area to confirm that the dura mater, the protective covering of the brain, remains intact. This careful approach is crucial to prevent further complications and ensure proper healing of the skull and surrounding tissues.