What Is the Average Cost of a Microdiscectomy?

Facing the prospect of herniated disc surgery can be daunting, not only for the physical and emotional toll it may take but also for the financial burden it can impose. One such procedure, microdiscectomy, is a common surgical option for treating herniated discs in the spine. While the prospect of relief from pain and discomfort is enticing, understanding the financial implications of such a procedure is crucial for making informed decisions. In this article you will learn about the average cost of a microdiscectomy and explore the factors that influence pricing and potential avenues for financial assistance.

Microdiscectomy Basics

Before contemplating the costs associated with microdiscectomy, it is essential to understand what this procedure entails. Microdiscectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed to alleviate pain caused by a herniated disc in the spine. During the procedure, a surgeon removes a small portion of the herniated disc material that is pressing on the nerve root or spinal cord, thereby relieving pressure and reducing pain and other symptoms.

Factors Influencing Cost

Several factors influence the cost of a microdiscectomy, making it challenging to provide a definitive figure. Some of the key factors include:

• Location – The cost of healthcare services can vary significantly depending on the geographical location. Urban areas and regions with higher living costs tend to have higher medical expenses.
• Hospital or surgical facility fees – The fees charged by the hospital or surgical facility where the procedure is performed can contribute significantly to the overall cost. This includes charges for the operating room, equipment, and nursing care.
• Surgeon’s fees – The experience and expertise of the surgeon performing the microdiscectomy can also influence the cost. Surgeons with a higher level of skill and reputation may charge higher fees for their services.
• Anesthesia fees – The administration of anesthesia during the procedure incurs additional costs, which can vary depending on the type of anesthesia used and the duration of the surgery.
• Diagnostic tests and imaging – Preoperative diagnostic tests, such as MRI scans or X-rays, are often necessary to assess the condition of the spine and plan the surgery. These tests add to the overall cost of the procedure.
• Postoperative care and rehabilitation – Following the surgery, the patient may require postoperative care, including physical therapy and rehabilitation services. The cost of these services should be factored into the total expense of the procedure.

Average Cost Estimates

While precise cost estimates can vary widely depending on the factors mentioned above, it is possible to provide a general range based on available data. On average, the cost of a microdiscectomy in the United States typically ranges between $15,000 and $50,000. However, it is important to note that these figures are approximate and may be higher or lower depending on individual circumstances.

Options for Financial Assistance

Given the substantial cost associated with microdiscectomy, many patients may find themselves facing financial challenges. Fortunately, several options for financial assistance and healthcare financing may alleviate the burden:

• Health insurance coverage – In many cases, health insurance plans provide coverage for surgical procedures such as microdiscectomy. Patients should review their insurance policies carefully to understand their coverage options, including deductibles, co-payments, and out-of-pocket expenses.
• Medicare and Medicaid – Eligible individuals may qualify for coverage through government-funded healthcare programs such as Medicare or Medicaid. These programs provide health insurance coverage for individuals with low incomes or certain qualifying conditions.
• Payment plans and financing options – Some hospitals and surgical facilities offer payment plans or financing options to help patients manage the cost of surgery. These arrangements may allow patients to pay for their procedures over time, reducing the financial strain of lump-sum payments.
• Medical grants and assistance programs – Various organizations and foundations offer medical grants and assistance programs to help individuals cover the cost of necessary medical procedures. Patients may explore these options to determine if they qualify for financial support.

The average cost of a microdiscectomy can vary significantly depending on a variety of factors, including location, healthcare provider fees, and insurance coverage. While the financial aspect of surgery may seem daunting, it is essential for patients to explore their options for financial assistance and healthcare financing to ensure access to necessary medical care. By understanding the potential costs and available resources, patients can make informed decisions about their healthcare and pursue treatment with confidence.

Microdiscectomy recovery times and costs are different for each individual and depend on factors such as whether the patient has a large hole in the outer ring of the disc after surgery. If the hole in the disc is larger than a standard pencil eraser, the patient has a significant risk of experiencing a reherniation. In fact, 70 percent of all reherniations come from these larger holes in the disc. These reherniations often require additional surgery or even a larger spinal fusion operation. Barricaid is a bone-anchored device shown to reduce reherniations by closing the hole in the disc after a discectomy, and 95 percent of Barricaid patients did not undergo a reoperation due to reherniation in a 2-year study timeframe. This treatment is done immediately following the microdiscectomy—during the same operation—and does not require any additional incisions or time in the hospital. 

If you have any questions about the Barricaid treatment or how to get access to Barricaid, you may ask your doctor or contact us today.

For full benefit/risk information, please visit: https://www.barricaid.com/instructions.