How Much Does Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery Cost?
Also known as: Carpal tunnel surgery (CPT 64721)
Carpal tunnel release surgery to relieve pressure on the median nerve in the wrist.
The total estimated cost of Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery (CPT 64721) is $1,422 to $2,667, including hospital fees, anesthesia, and supplies. The surgeon's Medicare fee alone is $423.
Total Estimated Cost of Care
This estimate includes hospital facility fees, anesthesia, and supplies .
Patient Guide: Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
Under local or regional anesthesia, the surgeon cuts the ligament pressing on the nerve in your wrist. This can be done through a small incision or endoscopically. You go home the same day.
How Long Does It Take?
15-30 minutes
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Carpal tunnel syndrome not responding to conservative treatment, numbness and tingling in the hand, hand weakness, dropping objects
How to Prepare
Arrange a driver. You will have a bandage or splint for 1-2 weeks. Grip strength gradually improves over weeks to months. You can usually return to light activities in 1-2 weeks.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Carpal tunnel surgery
How to Reduce Your Cost for Carpal tunnel surgery
Practical tips that can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars
- 1 Ask about cash-pay discounts
Many hospitals and clinics offer 20-40% discounts for self-pay patients. Always ask before scheduling.
- 2 Compare facility vs. office setting costs
For this procedure, the office rate ($483) differs from the facility rate ($423). Ask if it can be done in an office setting.
- 3 Shop around — costs vary significantly
Costs can vary 2-3x between providers in the same city. Get quotes from multiple facilities.
How is the Price Calculated?
Medicare calculates procedure payments using Relative Value Units (RVUs). Each procedure has three components multiplied by a conversion factor ($33.40 in 2026) and adjusted by geographic cost indices.
Payment = Total RVU (14.45) x CF ($33.40) = $483
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Carpal tunnel surgery cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Carpal tunnel surgery is $423. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Carpal tunnel surgery cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Carpal tunnel surgery can range from 150% of Medicare to 500% of Medicare depending on the facility. Many hospitals and clinics offer self-pay discounts of 20-40% off their chargemaster price. Always ask about cash pricing before your visit.
Does insurance cover Carpal tunnel surgery?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Carpal tunnel surgery when ordered by a physician for a medically necessary reason. Your out-of-pocket cost depends on your plan's deductible, copay/coinsurance structure, and whether you use an in-network provider. Check with your insurance company before scheduling to confirm coverage and get a cost estimate.
Why does the cost vary so much by location?
Medicare adjusts payments using Geographic Practice Cost Indices (GPCIs) that reflect local differences in physician work costs, practice expenses, and malpractice insurance. Manhattan, San Francisco, and other high-cost areas pay significantly more than rural regions. Commercial insurers follow similar geographic patterns.