How Much Does Back Surgery Cost?

If you have had back pain for quite a while now, and just can’t stand it, you may have consulted with a Doctor, or even a Chiropractor.  Sadly, many health insurance companies won’t cover a back surgery if it isn’t mandated by a health professional.  While back surgery can be rather expensive, there are many factors to consider.

How much is it?

• Basic back surgeries such as a hernia will run you $5,000 to $9,000.
• According to Surgery-Guide.com, more complicated surgeries such as a Spondylodesis fusion, this can cost you upwards of $17,000+.
• According to NewAmerica.net, a spinal fusion can run you anywhere from $25,000 to as much as $50,000+
• Endoscopic back surgery procedures can range from $5,000 to as much as $8,500.
• A Spondylodesis back surgery can range anywhere from $10,000 to as much as $16,000.
• A laminectomy can vary anywhere from $60,000 to as much as $100,000+
• All of the prices listed above are for those that don’t have health insurance.  For those that have a health insurance policy, be sure to check with your policy as most will cover as long as it’s deemed medically necessary.  If this is the case, you’ll be responsible for your co-pay and deductibles.

What is going to be included?

• A consultation will generally be performed before the surgery even starts.  Since there are a variety of surgeries that can be performed, the doctor will pick out what is best for your situation.
• During these procedures, pressure will normally be taken off the nerve root, allowing the spinal cord to release the pain.

What are the extra costs?

• Since the procedure will be held in a local hospital, many of the local hospital fees are going to apply.  Bed fees, the doctor fees, TV fees, surgery fees and more will all be included in your final invoice.  Without insurance, this can easily cost you $1,500+ a day.
• After the surgery is said and done, prescriptions will more than likely be prescribed.  You will be required to take the medication for a limited time until you’re recovered at 100%.
• Follow up appointments will be required after to ensure that your surgery has been done right.
• Depending on the surgery, you may have to attend physical therapy sessions on a weekly basis.  Without insurance, it can run $100+ a session.  Optional material such as a back brace or cane may be required depending on the severity of the surgery.

Types of back surgery:

• Endoscopic Back Surgery:  This surgery will utilize a smaller tube that is inserted through a small incision.  Viewed with a video camera, this procedure can help with pinched nerves and stabilized joints.
• Laminectomy:  This procedure will require the bones to be removed that overlay the spinal cord.  This will help reduce pressure on the bones.
• Spondylodesis Back Surgery:  Also known as a spinal fusion, these fuses will relieve pressure that have been put on the nerves.  During this surgery, ligaments will be removed that are surrounding the nerves.
• Vertebroplasty:  This procedure will require the injection of a bone cement.  This cement will stabilize the area as well as help reduce the back pain.

How can I save money?

• If you don’t have insurance, be sure to highly consider it via your work, or get a personal policy.  Sites such as eHealthInsurance are a great starting point to find a policy for yourself, as well as your family.
• If you meet certain income requirements, you may be able to qualify for Medicaid.
• Surgery may not be required.  Instead, you may want to consult with a Physical Therapist to see if they can help you with certain exercises.
• To those paying out of pocket, many hospitals would be more than willing to offer a discount to those paying up front with cash.

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