Coding Ahead
CasePilot
Medical Coding Assistant
CaseConsultant
Instant Email Coding Consultant
Case2Code
Search and Code Lookup Tool
CareerCenter
Medical Coding Job Board
Log in Register free account
0 code page views remaining. Guest accounts are limited to 1 page view. Register free account to get 5 more views.
Log in Register free account

Official Description

Laparoscopy, surgical, repair, recurrent incisional hernia (includes mesh insertion, when performed); incarcerated or strangulated

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

Laparoscopic repair of a recurrent incisional hernia involves a minimally invasive surgical technique aimed at correcting a hernia that has reoccurred at the site of a previous abdominal incision. An incisional hernia is characterized by a protrusion of tissue through a defect in the abdominal wall, which occurs due to inadequate healing of a surgical wound. This type of hernia can be particularly challenging to manage because the abdominal wall tissue is often already compromised, being thin and stretched from prior surgical interventions. The procedure may include the insertion of a mesh, which is a common practice to reinforce the abdominal wall and reduce the likelihood of future hernias. In cases where the hernia is incarcerated or strangulated, the surgical approach becomes more complex, as it requires careful handling of the affected bowel or tissue to prevent further complications. The laparoscopic method allows for a thorough examination of the abdominal cavity, enabling the surgeon to address adhesions, evaluate the hernia's extent, and perform the necessary repairs with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

CasePilot
Have a question about CPT® Code 49657?

Get instant expert-level answers from CasePilot, our coding assistant.

Register to view content

Create a free account to unlock this content

Register to view content

Create a free account to unlock this content

Register to view content

Create a free account to unlock this content

Register to view content

Create a free account to unlock this content

Register to view content

Create a free account to unlock this content

CasePilot

Get instant expert-level medical coding assistance.

Ask about:
CPT Codes Guidelines Modifiers Crosswalks NCCI Edits Compliance Medicare Coverage
Example: "What is CPT code 99213?" or "Guidelines for E/M services"