CPT® Code 49615

Repair of anterior abdominal hernia(s) (ie, epigastric, incisional, ventral, umbilical, spigelian), any approach (ie, open, laparoscopic, robotic), recurrent, including implantation of mesh or other prosthesis when performed, total length of defect(s); 3 cm to 10 cm, reducible

The CPT® Code 49615 refers to the surgical procedure for the repair of recurrent anterior abdominal hernias, which can include various types such as epigastric, incisional, ventral, umbilical, and spigelian hernias. This procedure can be performed using any surgical approach, including open surgery, laparoscopic techniques, or robotic assistance. A recurrent hernia is characterized by the protrusion of tissue or organ parts, such as intestines, through a defect at or near the site of a previous hernia repair. The specific code 49615 is designated for the repair of a reducible hernia, where the hernia contents can be pushed back into their normal position within the abdominal cavity. The size of the hernia defect being repaired ranges from 3 cm to 10 cm. During the repair process, if the hernia is small, it may be addressed by simply resuturing the tissue. For larger defects, more complex techniques such as the shoelace technique may be employed, or the repair may be reinforced with a mesh implant to prevent future recurrence. The procedure begins with an incision over the hernia defect for open repairs, or a small incision is made for laparoscopic approaches, where a trocar is inserted to establish pneumoperitoneum for the introduction of a laparoscope. Additional incisions may be made for surgical instruments or robotic tools. The surgical team will excise any existing scar tissue, dissect the hernia sac, and free any adherent omentum or bowel from the abdominal wall. The hernia sac and its peritoneal lining are then excised, and the abdominal wall is sutured closed or reconstructed as necessary. The placement of mesh or a prosthetic implant is typically performed to reinforce the repair and reduce the risk of recurrence. If the repair requires the removal of any existing mesh, that procedure is reported separately. This code does not apply to strangulated or incarcerated hernias, which are reported with a different code.