CPT code 49650: Laparoscopic repair of initial inguinal hernia

When both sides are repaired laparoscopically during the same session, CPT 49650 can be reported with modifier -50 to indicate bilateral surgery. Be sure to consult payer-specific guidelines to determine if two units or one line with a modifier is preferred.

No. For recurrent inguinal hernias, use CPT 49656. The 49650 code is reserved for initial presentations only.

CPT 49650 describes a laparoscopic approach to repairing an initial inguinal hernia, while CPT 49505 refers to an open surgical approach. Code selection should always reflect the actual technique used.