How Much Does Removal Of/bivlv Full Arm/leg Cast Cost?
Also known as: Rmvl/bivlv full arm/leg cast (CPT 29705)
Removal of a full arm or full leg cast.
The total estimated cost of Removal Of/bivlv Full Arm/leg Cast (CPT 29705) is $137 to $257, including hospital fees, anesthesia, and supplies. The surgeon's Medicare fee alone is $41.
Total Estimated Cost of Care
This estimate includes hospital facility fees, anesthesia, and supplies .
Patient Guide: Removal Of/bivlv Full Arm/leg Cast
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
The cast is cut off using a vibrating saw, then spread open with a cast spreader, and the padding is cut with scissors.
How Long Does It Take?
10-15 minutes
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Fracture healing complete, transitioning to a brace, evaluation of the healing limb
How to Prepare
The limb will feel weak and stiff after being in a cast. Physical therapy may be needed.
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Rmvl/bivlv full arm/leg cast
How to Reduce Your Cost for Rmvl/bivlv full arm/leg cast
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 ($69) differs from the facility rate ($41). 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 (2.08) x CF ($33.40) = $69
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Rmvl/bivlv full arm/leg cast cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Rmvl/bivlv full arm/leg cast is $41. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Rmvl/bivlv full arm/leg cast cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Rmvl/bivlv full arm/leg cast 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 Rmvl/bivlv full arm/leg cast?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Rmvl/bivlv full arm/leg cast 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.