CPT® Code 77371

Radiation treatment delivery, stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), complete course of treatment of cranial lesion(s) consisting of 1 session; multi-source Cobalt 60 based

The CPT® Code 77371 refers to the delivery of a complete course of radiation treatment specifically designed for cranial lesions using stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) in a single session. This procedure employs multi-source Cobalt 60 technology, which is a form of external beam radiation therapy. Unlike traditional surgical methods, stereotactic radiosurgery does not physically remove the tumor; instead, it utilizes high doses of focused radiation to disrupt the DNA of tumor cells, impairing their ability to reproduce. The precision of this technique allows for targeted delivery of radiation to a specific area of the brain or neck, minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. The term 'radiosurgery' is used because the effects of this treatment can be so significant that they mimic surgical outcomes, despite the absence of any actual surgical intervention. The planning for this procedure is highly sophisticated, involving computer-aided technology that accurately determines the three-dimensional coordinates of the target lesion. To ensure the utmost precision during treatment, patients are immobilized using skeletal fixation devices that restrict head movement entirely. This immobilization is crucial as it enhances the accuracy of the radiation delivery, making it possible to focus on the lesion while sparing adjacent healthy structures. Cobalt 60 based radiosurgery, often referred to as Gamma Knife surgery, is one of the three primary technologies utilized for SRS. This method employs multiple radiation sources that emit collimated beams, allowing for scalpel-like precision in targeting the lesion. Such precision is particularly beneficial for treating smaller tumors and addressing functional disorders of the brain. Cobalt 60 machines are specifically designed for the treatment of brain tumors, arteriovenous malformations, and conditions like trigeminal neuralgia, making them a preferred option for these types of medical issues.