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Pain Management Techniques for Knee Pain 7.01.100
Excellus BlueCross BlueShield·Orthopedics, Pain Management, Anesthesiology·Bone & Joints (Orthopedic)
Effective date
Jul 17, 2025
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
Excellus BlueCross BlueShield has designated all radiofrequency ablation/denervation of genicular nerves, cryoneurolysis/cryoablation for knee pain, and IPACK blocks as investigational procedures. This means these pain management techniques for knee conditions will not be covered and claims will be denied.
Action Required
By July 17, 2025: Billing team must update system to deny/flag claims for radiofrequency ablation of genicular nerves, cryoneurolysis/cryoablation for knee osteoarthritis or total knee arthroplasty, and IPACK blocks as non-covered investigational services for Excellus BlueCross BlueShield members. Update encounter forms to alert providers these procedures are not covered. Claims submitted will be denied as investigational.