CPT and HCPCS Codes for Right Inguinal Hernia Repair (Ambulatory Setting)

Coding for inguinal hernia repair depends on surgical approach, laterality, recurrence status, and whether the hernia is incarcerated or strangulated. Below are the primary codes for ambulatory (outpatient) settings.

CPT Codes (Surgeon Professional Fee)

Code	Description
49505	Repair initial inguinal hernia, any age; reducible (includes mesh if used)
49507	Repair initial inguinal hernia, any age; incarcerated or strangulated
49521	Repair recurrent inguinal hernia, any age; reducible
49525	Repair recurrent inguinal hernia, any age; incarcerated or strangulated
49550	Repair initial femoral hernia, any age; reducible
49553	Repair initial femoral hernia, any age; incarcerated/strangulated
49555	Repair recurrent femoral hernia; reducible
49557	Repair recurrent femoral hernia; incarcerated/strangulated
49650	Laparoscopic repair initial inguinal hernia
49651	Laparoscopic repair recurrent inguinal hernia
49652	Laparoscopic repair initial inguinal hernia, incarcerated/strangulated
49653	Laparoscopic repair recurrent inguinal hernia, incarcerated/strangulated
49659	Unlisted laparoscopy procedure, hernia repair

HCPCS Level II Codes (Facility/Supply — Hospital Outpatient/ASC)

C-codes (Device-intensive procedures, Medicare OPPS):

• C1781 — Mesh (implantable) — reported with hernia repair when mesh is used
• C1713 — Anchor/screw for opposing bone-to-bone or soft tissue-to-bone (if applicable)

Note: The C-codes listed in the source (C1810–C1814) appear to be outdated or incorrect for current hernia repair. Current HCPCS for mesh is C1781. Always verify with the current CMS HCPCS database and payer policies.

Modifiers

• -50: Bilateral (if bilateral repair)
• -RT / -LT: Right / Left (required by some payers instead of -50)
• -22: Increased procedural services (document complexity)
• -51: Multiple procedures (if other procedures same session)
• -59: Distinct procedural service (if separate incision/site)

Key Documentation Elements

• Approach: Open vs. Laparoscopic
• Laterality: Right, Left, Bilateral
• Status: Initial vs. Recurrent
• Condition: Reducible vs. Incarcerated vs. Strangulated
• Mesh: Type, size, placement (onlay, inlay, sublay, preperitoneal)
• Concomitant procedures (e.g., hydrocelectomy, orchiopexy)

Accurate coding ensures proper reimbursement and compliance. Consult a certified coder for complex cases.