CPT® Code 49521

A recurrent inguinal hernia repair is a surgical procedure performed on patients of any age to address a hernia that has reoccurred after a previous repair. An inguinal hernia occurs when abdominal contents, such as intestines or fatty tissue, protrude through a weak spot in the abdominal wall, specifically in the groin area. This condition can lead to complications if the hernia becomes incarcerated, meaning the protruding tissue cannot be pushed back into its normal position, or strangulated, where the blood supply to the tissue is compromised. The complexity of repairing a recurrent hernia can vary significantly based on the size of the defect and the degree of scarring or tissue damage from the initial surgical intervention. The procedure involves careful dissection and reconstruction of the anatomical layers to ensure a successful repair and minimize the risk of further complications.