How Much Does Knee Arthroscopy with Meniscus Repair Cost?
Also known as: Arthrs kne srg mnisectmy m/l (CPT 29881)
A minimally invasive surgery using a tiny camera to repair a torn meniscus (cartilage pad) in the knee.
The total estimated cost of Knee Arthroscopy with Meniscus Repair (CPT 29881) is $1,733 to $3,249, including hospital fees, anesthesia, and supplies. The surgeon's Medicare fee alone is $516.
Total Estimated Cost of Care
This estimate includes hospital facility fees, anesthesia, and supplies .
Patient Guide: Knee Arthroscopy with Meniscus Repair
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
Through small incisions, the surgeon inserts a camera and instruments to trim or repair torn cartilage. Most patients go home the same day.
How Long Does It Take?
30-60 minutes surgery, same-day discharge
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Torn meniscus, knee locking or catching, knee pain and swelling from cartilage tear
How to Prepare
Fast after midnight. Arrange a ride home. Have crutches and ice packs ready at home.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Arthrs kne srg mnisectmy m/l
What Insurance Companies Actually Pay
Real negotiated rates from 16 hospitals across 6 states (from hospital price transparency filings)
| Insurance Company | Avg Rate | Range | Hospitals |
|---|---|---|---|
| United | $4,870 | $1,168 - $9,421 | 10 |
| Cigna | $4,135 | $2,363 - $10,059 | 7 |
| Humana | $4,019 | $3,051 - $7,176 | 8 |
| BCBS | $4,911 | $1,143 - $7,473 | 5 |
| KAISER FOUNDATION HEALTH PLAN, INC. | $6,773 | $3,921 - $12,278 | 5 |
| Aetna | $5,229 | $1,842 - $8,799 | 7 |
| BCBS-TX | $3,822 | $2,053 - $5,256 | 3 |
| Superior Health Plan | $2,597 | $2,369 - $4,875 | 3 |
| Wellpoint | $2,278 | $1,088 - $4,875 | 2 |
| Multiplan | $5,572 | $3,481 - $11,500 | 5 |
| Anthem | $7,643 | $4,765 - $10,063 | 2 |
| UNITED | $2,204 | $1,110 - $3,503 | 2 |
How to Reduce Your Cost for Arthrs kne srg mnisectmy m/l
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
Some procedures cost significantly less in an office setting than a hospital. Ask your provider about options.
- 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 (15.44) x CF ($33.40) = $516
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
People Also Ask
Common questions people search for about this procedure
Does insurance cover knee arthroscopy?
What is the average cost of a knee arthroscopy?
Procedure Details On MDsave, the cost of a Knee Arthroscopy with or without Meniscectomy ranges from ,386 to 3,189. Those on high deductible health plans or without insurance can shop, compare prices and save.
Is getting your knee scoped worth it?
What is the average age for knee arthroscopy?
The median age of patients who underwent knee arthroscopy decreased from 51 to 46 and from 71 to 69 in knee arthroplasty patients.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Arthrs kne srg mnisectmy m/l cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Arthrs kne srg mnisectmy m/l is $516. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Arthrs kne srg mnisectmy m/l cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Arthrs kne srg mnisectmy m/l 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 Arthrs kne srg mnisectmy m/l?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Arthrs kne srg mnisectmy m/l 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.