How Much Does Shoulder Arthroscopy with Decompression Cost?
Also known as: Sho arthrs srg decompression (CPT 29826)
Minimally invasive shoulder surgery to remove bone spurs and create more space for the rotator cuff tendons.
Shoulder Arthroscopy with Decompression (CPT 29826) costs $148 at Medicare rates.
Patient Guide: Shoulder Arthroscopy with Decompression
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
Through small incisions, the surgeon uses a camera to view inside the shoulder and shaves away bone and tissue that is pinching the tendons.
How Long Does It Take?
30-60 minutes, same-day discharge
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Shoulder impingement, bone spurs, bursitis, rotator cuff tendinitis not responding to therapy
How to Prepare
Fast after midnight. Arrange a ride and home help. You will use a sling for 1-2 weeks.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Sho arthrs srg decompression
Sho arthrs srg decompression Cost by Location
Medicare-adjusted rates across CMS localities
| Location | Medicare Rate | Est. Commercial |
|---|---|---|
| AK — ALASKA | $191 | $248 — $382 |
| AL — ALABAMA | $136 | $177 — $272 |
| AR — ARKANSAS | $135 | $175 — $269 |
| AZ — ARIZONA | $145 | $188 — $289 |
| CA — BAKERSFIELD | $146 | $189 — $291 |
| CA — CHICO | $144 | $187 — $288 |
| CA — EL CENTRO | $144 | $187 — $288 |
| CA — FRESNO | $144 | $187 — $288 |
| CA — HANFORD-CORCORAN | $144 | $187 — $288 |
| CA — LOS ANGELES-LONG BEACH-ANAHEIM (LOS ANGELES/ORANGE CNTY) | $151 | $197 — $303 |
| CA — MADERA | $144 | $187 — $288 |
| CA — MERCED | $144 | $187 — $288 |
| CA — MODESTO | $144 | $187 — $288 |
| CA — NAPA | $155 | $201 — $309 |
| CA — OXNARD-THOUSAND OAKS-VENTURA | $149 | $194 — $299 |
| CA — REDDING | $144 | $187 — $288 |
| CA — REST OF CALIFORNIA | $144 | $187 — $288 |
| CA — RIVERSIDE-SAN BERNARDINO-ONTARIO | $150 | $195 — $300 |
| CA — SACRAMENTO-ROSEVILLE-FOLSOM | $148 | $192 — $296 |
| CA — SALINAS | $147 | $191 — $294 |
| CA — SAN DIEGO-CHULA VISTA-CARLSBAD | $148 | $193 — $297 |
| CA — SAN FRANCISCO-OAKLAND-BERKELEY (MARIN CNTY) | $160 | $208 — $319 |
| CA — SAN FRANCISCO-OAKLAND-BERKELEY (SAN FRANCISCO/SAN MATEO/ALAMEDA/CONTRA COSTA CNTY) | $159 | $207 — $318 |
| CA — SAN JOSE-SUNNYVALE-SANTA CLARA (SAN BENITO CNTY) | $164 | $213 — $327 |
| CA — SAN JOSE-SUNNYVALE-SANTA CLARA (SANTA CLARA CNTY) | $161 | $209 — $322 |
How to Reduce Your Cost for Sho arthrs srg decompression
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
Medicare rates for this procedure range from $134 to $191 depending on location. Commercial rates vary even more.
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 (4.42) x CF ($33.40) = $148
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Consider These Alternatives
Depending on your clinical situation, these alternatives may be appropriate and could save you money.
Note: Alternative procedures may not be clinically appropriate for all patients. Always consult your physician to determine the best option for your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Sho arthrs srg decompression cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Sho arthrs srg decompression is $148. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Sho arthrs srg decompression cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Sho arthrs srg decompression 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 Sho arthrs srg decompression?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Sho arthrs srg decompression 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.