What is the Average Cost of Carpal Tunnel Surgery?

What is the Average Cost of Carpal Tunnel Surgery?

The cost of carpal tunnel release surgery depends on various factors. The method used during surgery can have an effect on the cost, it is less expensive for the doctor to perform an open release versus an endoscopic release, but the open release requires more healing time. Other factors that play into the overall costs include the type of facility that is used to perform the procedure, insurance carrier and plans, and geographic locations. When looking at a bill from the insurance company, a patient is able to see the breakdown of the services rendered, these fees include the cost of the physician services, use of the hospital (i.e. inpatient versus outpatient), and the anesthetic services needed.

The cost of carpal tunnel release surgery will not just vary based on the type of facility used to perform the procedure (i.e. outpatient versus hospital), but the region can also factor into the pricing. Some areas in the United States will have higher healthcare costs than others. Along with the variation in costs based on the region, there is also a possibility that there is a difference in the insurance rates. The amount the insurance company has negotiated with contracted physicians can vary in the region, and the cost difference will be passed onto the patient. If there are any complications that arise during the procedure, the additional care will come at additional costs.

Outpatient Surgery Center

The average cost of physician services in an outpatient surgery center is $746, and that fee typically includes the post operative examination. The cost to use the facility as an outpatient is on average $1297. If for some reason there is the need for the patient to stay overnight, there would be additional costs added to the total. The approximate cost for a nights stay is about $1800. The cost for anesthesia services is about $408, and that covers an average 45-minute surgery if the surgery goes longer than price may vary. The total average cost for a carpal tunnel release surgery without complications is about $2,451.

Carpal tunnel release surgery will not be the only cost that is endured for treatment of the condition. Post operative therapies may be necessary to strengthen and to teach the patient so appropriate ergonomics. The amount of time necessary will depend on how quickly the patient recovers. The average cost of the procedure, therapy and other related expenses can average around $29,000.

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