49596 repair aa hrn first > 10 ncr/strn
Also known as: ventral hernia repair with mesh, large hernia mesh repair, hernia reinforcement
Initial repair of abdominal wall hernia (primary) greater than 10 centimeters with mesh or tissue reinforcement.
In Plain Language
surgical repair of large hernia with reinforcement patch; mesh placement for large defect
Clinical Context
Surgical repair of primary ventral or abdominal wall hernia greater than 10 centimeters with mesh or tissue reinforcement. Standard approach for large defects.
RVU Breakdown
| Work RVU | 18.20 |
| Total RVU | 18.20 |
Est. Medicare Payment
National estimate based on 2026 CMS PFS Conversion Factor ($33.40). Actual payment varies by locality (GPCI adjustment).
Billing & Documentation
As a surgical CPT code, proper documentation must include the operative report detailing the procedure performed, patient positioning, approach, findings, and any complications. This code has a 0-day global period, meaning pre- and post-operative E&M visits are billable separately on the same day. Ensure the diagnosis code (ICD-10) supports medical necessity for the procedure.
How This Code Compares
With a work RVU of 18.20, this code ranks in the 79th percentile among Surgery codes — 2.3x the median (8.00). The highest wRVU in this category is 106.19.
Specialties
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CPT code 49596?
CPT 49596 (repair aa hrn first > 10 ncr/strn) is a Surgery code. Initial repair of abdominal wall hernia (primary) greater than 10 centimeters with mesh or tissue reinforcement.
What is the wRVU value for CPT 49596?
The work RVU for CPT 49596 is 18.20. This code is primarily used by General Surgery.
When is CPT 49596 used?
Surgical repair of primary ventral or abdominal wall hernia greater than 10 centimeters with mesh or tissue reinforcement. Standard approach for large defects.
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CPT® is a registered trademark of the American Medical Association. Data sourced from CMS Physician Fee Schedule RVU26A. Descriptions, synonyms, and clinical context are original content by RVU Edge.