How Much Does Arthroscopic Knee Surgery with Lateral Retinacular Release Cost?
This arthroscopic knee surgery involves releasing the lateral retinaculum, a band of tissue on the outer side of the kneecap. It is performed to relieve pressure and improve kneecap tracking, often for patellofemoral pain syndrome.
Step 1 · The average price
Average hospital price
$16,305
Based on 100 hospitals across 68 cities
💡 The doctor's Medicare fee is $524 — that's what the physician receives. Hospital/facility charges are separate.
Step 2 · Your city
What does Knee Lateral Release cost where you live?
Prices vary by location. Pick your city to see local hospital prices.
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Prices from the Hospital Price Transparency Act. Median = middle price across insurers at that hospital.
Common Questions
How much does Knee Lateral Release cost?
The average Average hospital price for Arthroscopic Knee Surgery with Lateral Retinacular Release is $16,305. Across 100 hospitals, prices range from $1,279 to $53,379.
Does Medicare cover Knee Lateral Release?
Yes. Medicare pays physicians $524 on average. Under Original Medicare (Part B), you typically pay 20% after your deductible (~$105).
How much does it cost without insurance?
Uninsured patients often face the chargemaster rate (3-10x higher than cash price). Always ask the hospital for their self-pay or cash-pay rate — often 40-80% off the list price.
Why is the price so different between hospitals?
Hospital prices for the same procedure vary by insurance contract, facility overhead, and regional cost of living. In some cities, the highest-priced hospital charges 3-5× what the lowest-priced hospital charges for the same service.
What should I ask before scheduling?
Ask for the total estimated bill (including facility + anesthesia + supplies), whether the service is covered by your insurance, if the procedure can be done at an ambulatory surgery center (typically 30-60% cheaper), and what the cash-pay rate is.
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