CPT 61020
Remove brain cavity fluid
CPT 61020 at a glance
- Code
- 61020
- Code type
- CPT/HCPCS
- Short descriptor
- Remove brain cavity fluid
- Category
- ASC Surgical
- ASC payment status
- Payable in an ASC (surgical)
- CMS addendum
- AA (Surgical)
- Typical setting
- Ambulatory surgery center (POS 24) or hospital outpatient department (POS 22).
What is CPT code 61020?
CPT 61020 is a CPT/HCPCS procedure code. Its official CMS short descriptor is "Remove brain cavity fluid". In the ASC context it is grouped under ASC Surgical.
Is CPT 61020 payable in an ambulatory surgery center (ASC)?
CPT 61020 appears on Medicare's ASC Covered Procedures List (CMS Addendum AA), so Medicare reimburses it when the surgery is performed in a certified ambulatory surgery center.
Where is CPT 61020 typically performed?
Ambulatory surgery center (POS 24) or hospital outpatient department (POS 22).
Which specialties use CPT 61020?
CPT 61020 is most associated with Neurological Surgery.
Reference information compiled from the CMS April 2026 ASC payment addenda (AA, BB, EE). Codes, descriptors, and ASC payment status change with each CMS update. This is a coding reference, not billing, coding, or legal advice. Always verify against the current CMS addenda and individual payer policy before billing. CPT is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association.