What insurance policy changes affect CPT 31649?

There are 6 tracked policy changes affecting CPT 31649, including updates from Aetna, Humana, Independence Blue Cross. Each change may modify coverage criteria, reimbursement rates, or prior-authorization requirements.

Which payers have updated policy for CPT 31649?

Payers that have issued tracked updates for CPT 31649 include: Aetna, Humana, Independence Blue Cross.

How do I get notified when CPT 31649 policy changes?

Create a free account at PolicyChanges.app and save a search filtered to CPT 31649. You will receive a daily digest email whenever a new policy change references this code.

Why do payers change policies for CPT 31649?

Payers revise policies for individual billing codes to align with updated clinical guidelines, CMS rule changes, fraud and abuse prevention measures, or network cost-management goals. Changes can affect medical necessity criteria, place-of-service restrictions, bundling rules, or whether a code requires prior authorization.

31649 — Removing an extra bronchial valve that was previously placed in an airway to help with breathing problems.: Insurance Policy Changes

31649 Insurance Policy Changes

CPT 31649, in plain terms, covers Removing an extra bronchial valve that was previously placed in an airway to help with breathing problems. CPT 31649 is referenced in 6 tracked payer policy changes from Aetna, Humana, and 1 other payer. For billers and coders, staying current on payer-specific coverage criteria, reimbursement rules, and prior-authorization requirements for CPT 31649 is critical to clean claim submission. Each entry below links to the full policy analysis with effective dates and action steps.

High impact

Lung Denervation Therapy and Lung Volume Reduction Surgery (CPB 0160, reviewed 2026-03-26)

Aetna·Effective Mar 26, 2026

Aetna updated its coverage policy for lung denervation therapy and lung volume reduction surgery (CPB 0160), effective 2026-03-26. The policy clarifies medical necessity criteria for LVRS, bullectomy, and FDA-approved endobronchial valves, while designating targeted lung denervation (dNerva system), bronchoscopic thermal vapor ablation, biologic lung volume reduction, and thoracoscopic laser bullectomy as experimental/investigational and not covered. Billing teams must immediately verify that claims for these procedures include proper prior authorization and meet the detailed selection criteria outlined in the policy.

31649 Insurance Policy Changes

Lung Denervation Therapy and Lung Volume Reduction Surgery (CPB 0160, reviewed 2026-03-26)

Endobronchial Valve Therapy for Emphysema - Medicare Advantage (Revised)

Endobronchial Valves for the Treatment of Emphysema - Medicare Advantage (Revised)

11.16.09, Bronchial Valves

MA11.020, Bronchial Valves

11.16.09, Bronchial Valves