How Much Does Removal of Knee Prosthesis Cost?
Also known as: Removal of knee prosthesis (CPT 27488)
Removal of a knee implant (total or partial knee prosthesis).
The total estimated cost of Removal of Knee Prosthesis (CPT 27488) is $3,696 to $6,929, including hospital fees, anesthesia, and supplies. The surgeon's Medicare fee alone is $1,100.
Total Estimated Cost of Care
This estimate includes hospital facility fees, anesthesia, and supplies .
Patient Guide: Removal of Knee Prosthesis
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
Under anesthesia, the surgeon removes the knee replacement components, typically as the first stage of a revision or for infection treatment.
How Long Does It Take?
1-3 hours
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Infected knee replacement, failed knee replacement, first stage of two-stage revision
How to Prepare
Fast before surgery. May require antibiotic spacer placement. Extended recovery expected.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Removal of knee prosthesis
How to Reduce Your Cost for Removal of knee prosthesis
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 (32.93) x CF ($33.40) = $1,100
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Removal of knee prosthesis cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Removal of knee prosthesis is $1,100. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Removal of knee prosthesis cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Removal of knee prosthesis 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 Removal of knee prosthesis?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Removal of knee prosthesis 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.