How Much Does Ligamentous Reconstruction (acl), Knee Cost?
Also known as: Reconstruction knee (CPT 27427)
Surgery to reconstruct a torn knee ligament, such as the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament).
The total estimated cost of Ligamentous Reconstruction (acl), Knee (CPT 27427) is $2,227 to $4,176, including hospital fees, anesthesia, and supplies. The surgeon's Medicare fee alone is $663.
Total Estimated Cost of Care
This estimate includes hospital facility fees, anesthesia, and supplies .
Patient Guide: Ligamentous Reconstruction (acl), Knee
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
Under anesthesia, the surgeon rebuilds your torn knee ligament using tissue graft (from your own body or a donor). The surgery is often done arthroscopically through small incisions. Hospital stay is usually same-day or overnight.
How Long Does It Take?
1-2 hours of surgery
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
ACL tear from sports injury, knee instability, knee giving way during activities
How to Prepare
Pre-operative physical therapy (prehab) helps outcomes. Arrange for 1-2 weeks of help at home. Get crutches fitted. Plan for 6-9 months of rehabilitation.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Reconstruction knee
What Insurance Companies Actually Pay
Real negotiated rates from 15 hospitals across 6 states (from hospital price transparency filings)
| Insurance Company | Avg Rate | Range | Hospitals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aetna | $3,909 | $1,488 - $11,019 | 9 |
| United | $7,460 | $3,403 - $13,938 | 10 |
| Cigna | $5,366 | $1,545 - $12,562 | 9 |
| BCBS | $10,945 | $3,329 - $16,331 | 5 |
| Humana | $5,688 | $2,519 - $15,871 | 8 |
| Superior Health Plan | $2,892 | $2,369 - $10,733 | 4 |
| KAISER FOUNDATION HEALTH PLAN, INC. | $14,912 | $8,633 - $27,033 | 5 |
| BCBS-TX | $8,280 | $4,486 - $11,485 | 2 |
| Wellpoint | $5,600 | $3,171 - $10,733 | 2 |
| Multiplan | $8,547 | $2,819 - $11,500 | 5 |
| Anthem | $13,271 | $9,701 - $16,686 | 2 |
| UNITED | $6,091 | $3,234 - $10,207 | 2 |
How to Reduce Your Cost for Reconstruction knee
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 (19.84) x CF ($33.40) = $663
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Reconstruction knee cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Reconstruction knee is $663. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Reconstruction knee cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Reconstruction knee 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 Reconstruction knee?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Reconstruction knee 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.