Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Arthroscopy (Joint Scope) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Knee Arthroscopy | $5,000 – $12,000 | $800 – $2,500 |
| Shoulder Arthroscopy | $6,000 – $15,000 | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Hip Arthroscopy | $8,000 – $18,000 | $1,200 – $3,500 |
| Ankle Arthroscopy | $5,000 – $12,000 | $800 – $2,500 |
CPT/ADA Code: 29881
What Affects the Cost
- Brand-name vs. generic availability
- Insurance formulary tier placement
- Pharmacy choice (retail vs. mail-order vs. Costco)
- Manufacturer savings cards and coupons
- Dosage and quantity prescribed
- Geographic location
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: Medically necessary — covered for diagnostic and therapeutic joint procedures
Most insurance plans use a tiered formulary: Tier 1 (generic) $0-$15 copay, Tier 2 (preferred brand) $25-$75, Tier 3 (non-preferred brand) $50-$150, Tier 4 (specialty) $100-$500+. Prior authorization may be required for certain medications. Step therapy may require trying cheaper alternatives first.
How to Save Money
- Always ask for generic when available — saves 50-90%
- Use GoodRx, RxSaver, or similar discount cards
- Costco pharmacy is open to non-members and often has lowest prices
- Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drugs offers transparent low pricing
- Manufacturer patient assistance programs provide free medication to qualifying patients
- HSA/FSA funds can cover medication costs tax-free
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Arthroscopy costs $5,000 to $15,000+ without insurance depending on the joint and whether therapeutic interventions are performed.
Simple diagnostic arthroscopy allows return to activities in 1-2 weeks. Therapeutic procedures may require 4-12 weeks of recovery.
Yes, arthroscopy is covered when medically necessary. Purely diagnostic knee arthroscopy has declined as MRI has become more accurate.