49505
Repair Initial Inguinal Hernia, Age 5 Years or Older
Code Description
CPT code 49505 is used to report the initial repair of a reducible inguinal hernia in patients 5 years of age or older. During the procedure, the surgeon repairs the weakened area of the abdominal wall and returns protruding tissue to its normal position.
This procedure is commonly performed to relieve symptoms, prevent complications, and restore abdominal wall integrity.
When to Use 49505
Common examples include:
reducible inguinal hernia
groin bulge
groin discomfort
abdominal wall weakness
symptomatic inguinal hernia
Documentation Requirements
Documentation should include:
hernia location
reducible or incarcerated status
initial repair performed
surgical technique utilized
operative findings
patient tolerance
Common Billing Mistakes
Common billing mistakes include:
reporting an initial repair code for a recurrent hernia
incorrect age classification
failure to document hernia type
insufficient operative findings
selecting the wrong inguinal hernia repair code
Related CPT Codes
49507
Repair of Incarcerated or Strangulated Inguinal Hernia
49520
Repair of Recurrent Inguinal Hernia
49650
Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair
FAQ
What is an inguinal hernia?
An inguinal hernia occurs when tissue protrudes through a weakened area in the lower abdominal wall near the groin.
What is the difference between CPT 49505 and 49650?
CPT 49505 reports an open inguinal hernia repair, while CPT 49650 reports a laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair.
What does reducible hernia mean?
A reducible hernia can be pushed back into the abdomen and has not become trapped or strangulated.
Is CPT 49505 used for recurrent hernias?
No. CPT 49505 is reported for an initial inguinal hernia repair. Recurrent hernias are reported with different CPT codes.
Procedure Type
Hernia Repair
Body Area
Technique
Inguinal Region
Open Hernia Repair
