How Much Does Elbow Arthroscopy/surgery Cost?
Also known as: Elbow arthroscopy/surgery (CPT 29838)
Elbow arthroscopy with debridement (cleanup of damaged tissue).
The total estimated cost of Elbow Arthroscopy/surgery (CPT 29838) is $1,877 to $3,519, including hospital fees, anesthesia, and supplies. The surgeon's Medicare fee alone is $558.
Total Estimated Cost of Care
This estimate includes hospital facility fees, anesthesia, and supplies .
Patient Guide: Elbow Arthroscopy/surgery
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
Through small incisions, the surgeon uses a camera and instruments to clean up damaged cartilage, remove loose bodies, and smooth rough surfaces in the elbow.
How Long Does It Take?
30-60 minutes
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Elbow stiffness, elbow arthritis, loose bodies in the elbow, elbow impingement
How to Prepare
Fast before surgery. Arrange a driver. Start moving the elbow early after surgery as directed to prevent stiffness.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Elbow arthroscopy/surgery
How to Reduce Your Cost for Elbow arthroscopy/surgery
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 (16.72) x CF ($33.40) = $558
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Elbow arthroscopy/surgery cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Elbow arthroscopy/surgery is $558. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Elbow arthroscopy/surgery cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Elbow arthroscopy/surgery 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 Elbow arthroscopy/surgery?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Elbow arthroscopy/surgery 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.