How Much Does Colonoscopy with Polyp Removal Cost?
Also known as: Colonoscopy w/lesion removal (CPT 45385)
A colonoscopy with removal of a polyp (polypectomy) using a snare wire technique.
The total estimated cost of Colonoscopy with Polyp Removal (CPT 45385) is $751 to $1,408, including hospital fees, anesthesia, and supplies. The surgeon's Medicare fee alone is $223.
Total Estimated Cost of Care
This estimate includes hospital facility fees, anesthesia, and supplies .
Patient Guide: Colonoscopy with Polyp Removal
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
During the colonoscopy, the doctor uses a wire loop (snare) to remove a polyp from the colon lining. An electrical current may be used to cut and seal the tissue. The polyp is sent to a lab.
How Long Does It Take?
30-60 minutes (plus recovery)
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Removal of colon polyps to prevent colon cancer, polyp found during screening colonoscopy
How to Prepare
Same bowel prep as standard colonoscopy. Stop blood thinners as directed. You may have minor bleeding after polyp removal.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Colonoscopy w/lesion removal
How to Reduce Your Cost for Colonoscopy w/lesion removal
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 ($500) differs from the facility rate ($223). 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 (14.97) x CF ($33.40) = $500
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Colonoscopy w/lesion removal cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Colonoscopy w/lesion removal is $223. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Colonoscopy w/lesion removal cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Colonoscopy w/lesion removal 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 Colonoscopy w/lesion removal?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Colonoscopy w/lesion removal 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.