How Much Does Repair of Knee Cartilage Cost?
Also known as: Repair of knee cartilage (CPT 27403)
Repair of the cartilage (meniscus) in your knee, typically done arthroscopically through small incisions.
The total estimated cost of Repair of Knee Cartilage (CPT 27403) is $2,051 to $3,846, including hospital fees, anesthesia, and supplies. The surgeon's Medicare fee alone is $611.
Total Estimated Cost of Care
This estimate includes hospital facility fees, anesthesia, and supplies .
Patient Guide: Repair of Knee Cartilage
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
Using a tiny camera and instruments through small incisions, the surgeon either repairs or trims the torn meniscus cartilage. Most patients go home the same day.
How Long Does It Take?
30-60 minutes of surgery
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Torn meniscus from twisting injury, knee locking or catching, knee pain with swelling
How to Prepare
Arrange for someone to drive you home. Fast after midnight. Have crutches ready. Plan for 1-6 weeks of recovery depending on repair type.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Repair of knee cartilage
How to Reduce Your Cost for Repair of knee cartilage
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 (18.28) x CF ($33.40) = $611
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Repair of knee cartilage cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Repair of knee cartilage is $611. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Repair of knee cartilage cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Repair of knee cartilage 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 Repair of knee cartilage?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Repair of knee cartilage 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.