CPT® Code 49617

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); greater than 10 cm, reducible

The CPT® Code 49617 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 reappearance of a hernia at or near the site of a previous repair, and in this case, the hernia is reducible, meaning that the contents of the hernia sac can be pushed back into their normal anatomical position. The procedure specifically addresses hernias with a total defect length greater than 10 cm, indicating a significant size that may require more complex surgical techniques for effective repair. During the repair, the surgeon may utilize a mesh or other prosthetic material to reinforce the abdominal wall and support the repair, which is particularly important for larger defects. The surgical approach involves making an incision over the hernia defect for open repairs or utilizing smaller incisions for laparoscopic methods, where a trocar is inserted to establish pneumoperitoneum for the introduction of a laparoscope. The procedure includes careful dissection of the hernia sac, inspection of the contents, and excision of any scar tissue or existing sutures. The reconstruction of the abdominal wall is performed by suturing the muscle layers together, and the placement of mesh is done using various techniques to ensure optimal support and healing. This code is essential for accurately documenting and billing for the surgical repair of significant recurrent hernias, ensuring that healthcare providers are appropriately reimbursed for their services.