Coding a Decompressive Craniectomy

Question:

In a recent head trauma case, a decompressive craniectomy was performed with a partial temporal lobectomy, due to extensive damage. A hematoma was also evacuated. can we bill for the 61323 decompressive craniectomy code with lobectomy since only a partial lobectomy was done? And what about cooing for the hematoma evacuation?

Answer:

For the procedure described, code 61323, decompressive craniectomy with lobectomy, may be reported, even with a partial lobectomy.  The hematoma evacuation is included in code 61323.

*This response is based on the best information available as of 09/22/22.