Hernia Repair Cost

• About 70 percent of hernias occur in the groin, which is called an inguinal hernia. An inguinal hernia can be repaired through open surgery or laparoscopic surgery, according to the National Guideline Clearinghouse. A recent study of more than 1.5 million hernia operations found that the average cost for an open hernia surgery ranged between $4,200 and $6,200. Those with insurance can expect to pay typical deductibles and coinsurance rates. According to the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey conducted by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, the average family will have a $939 deductible to meet each year before their insurance benefits cover procedures. In addition, the survey found that the average coinsurance rate is about 17.9 percent of the bill. This means the average patient would pay between $750 and $1,109 for their hernia surgery.
• The other common type of hernia is called an umbilical hernia, which occurs in the abdomen. An umbilical hernia can also be repaired through laparoscopic or open surgery, which can cost an individual without insurance between $4,000 and $11,000. The average individual with insurance can expect to pay between $700 and $2,000.
• Some patients opt to delay surgical treatment of a hernia. In these cases, physicians often recommend the use of a hernia truss. A hernia truss or hernia support pushes the bulging organ back into the body. Hernia supports can cost between $15 and $110.

• Patients undergoing open surgical treatment of a hernia will have an incision made in the skin, near the site of the hernia. The surgeon will push the bulging organ back into its proper position and then will repair the muscle tear. Patients undergoing laparoscopic surgical treatment of a hernia will have three small incisions made near the site of the hernia. The surgeon will use a camera to view the issues inside the body and small instruments to make repairs to the injured tissue.
• Patients can expect to spend a few hours at the hospital or outpatient surgery center recovering. In some cases, a longer recovery period is necessary. During the recovery time, patients will have a bed and may receive intravenous fluids. Pain relief will also be provided, either via IV or tablet.

• Patients recovering from hernia surgery may be prescribed pain medication when leaving the hospital.
• Most patients will not need rehabilitation services after hernia surgery, but significant time off from work may be required. According to the National Guideline Clearinghouse, patients undergoing open surgery can return to light clerical work in about two weeks. Patients who work as manual laborers should wait between 21 and 56 days before returning to work, depending upon the intensity of their job. Those undergoing laparoscopic surgery should wait about a week before returning to light clerical work and about two weeks to 28 days before returning to a manual labor position. For many patients, the Family Medical Leave Act will protect them from losing their job during a period of medical leave. However, employers are not required to offer pay beyond accrued vacation and sick leave time during the recovery period. Before the surgery, patients who may require extended medical leave should research the medical leave act and talk to their human resources department about leave options.

• Many hospitals will provide financial assistance to low-income families and individuals. The level of assistance and income requirements will vary by facility. Be sure to contact the hospital or outpatient facility prior to receiving treatment.

• A patient's primary care physician will likely refer the patient to a surgeon for a surgical hernia repair. Patients can check a physician's licensure status with their state department of registration. Patients can also make sure their surgeon is board-certified through the American Board of Medical Specialties .
• For more information about selecting a doctor, the National Institutes of Health offers a free guide online.
• When shopping for a hernia truss, make sure the system fits and adequately supports the hernia. Many trusses will provide complete relief of symptoms, though they do not cure the hernia. Patient can ask a pharmacist for assistance in determining proper fit.
• not covered by insurance

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