CPT code 61156 covers neurosurgical burr hole aspiration to evacuate a cyst or hematoma on the surface of the brain, typically located in the anterior cranial vault. This intervention is an acute neurosurgical procedure used to relieve mass effect, reduce intracranial pressure, or manage symptomatic collections arising from trauma or iatrogenic causes. Nationally, such procedures are critical to emergency and inpatient neurosurgical care and influence hospital resource use, operative room scheduling, and post-operative monitoring.

Key payers discussed include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of clinical context, service and site-of-service considerations, and which payers are included in the coverage review. The publication also outlines what readers can expect in accompanying sections: national benchmarks for utilization and reimbursement patterns (where available), relevant policy and coverage updates affecting hospital-based neurosurgical procedures, and procedural coding guidance tied to clinical indications. Data not available in the input will be identified explicitly in the detailed sections of the full publication.