The Neurosurgery Coding Coach

KZA consultants discuss two frequently asked neurosurgery coding questions every month. Our coding experts are also available for hourly coding consultations and can provide a customized coding and documentation review for your practice.

The Team

Kim Pollock Teri Romano

March 18, 2010

Decompressive Craniotomy/Craniectomy

Question:

My doctor said he did a “decompressive hemicraniectomy.”  I’ve never seen him say this before - what code do I use?

Answer:

You will want to look at 61322 (Craniectomy or craniotomy, decompressive, with or without duraplasty, for treatment of intracranial hypertension, without evacuation of associated intraparenchymal hematoma; without lobectomy) or 61323 (same with lobectomy). 

If you have questions or would like to speak to Kim or Teri about how this affects your practice, please contact Robin Delgatto at KZA (rdelgatto@karenzupko.com or 312.642.5616), and he will be happy to share with you KZA’s fees for this service.

Coding Resources

Join Our Email List Email:

Read about one clinic's great success with their Request for Consultation form.

Do you have a coding question? KZA experts are available for hourly coding assistance.

Read about how KZA can provide a customized coding evaluation for your practice.

Ask KZA about sponsoring your own customized Neurosurgery course at your practice.

Purchase Code-Its! the diagnosis coding helper.