CPT 61550
Release of skull seams
CPT 61550 at a glance
- Code
- 61550
- Code type
- CPT/HCPCS (Add. EE)
- Short descriptor
- Release of skull seams
- Category
- Excluded from ASC Pay (Add. EE)
- ASC payment status
- Excluded from ASC payment
- CMS addendum
- EE (Excluded)
- Typical setting
- Hospital outpatient department (POS 22) or office (POS 11). Not separately payable in an ASC.
What is CPT code 61550?
CPT 61550 is a CPT/HCPCS (Add. EE) procedure code. Its official CMS short descriptor is "Release of skull seams". In the ASC context it is grouped under Excluded from ASC Pay (Add. EE).
Is CPT 61550 payable in an ambulatory surgery center (ASC)?
CPT 61550 is on CMS Addendum EE, the list of procedures excluded from ASC payment. Medicare does not pay for it in the ASC setting; it is typically performed in a hospital outpatient department (HOPD) or office instead.
Where is CPT 61550 typically performed?
Hospital outpatient department (POS 22) or office (POS 11). Not separately payable in an ASC.
Which specialties use CPT 61550?
CPT 61550 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.