CommercialCoverageMedium impact
Electrical Stimulation of the Spine as an Adjunct to Spinal Fusion Procedures
Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi·MS · Orthopedics, Neurosurgery·Medical Policy
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
BCBS Mississippi updated their policy on electrical bone growth stimulators for spinal fusion procedures, defining coverage criteria for invasive and noninvasive devices. The policy specifies that these devices are medically necessary only for high-risk patients (failed fusion, multi-level surgery, tobacco use, diabetes, etc.) and covers noninvasive devices for treating failed fusions after 6+ months.
Action Required
Immediately: Review all pending and future spinal fusion cases to ensure electrical bone growth stimulator requests meet the high-risk criteria (previous failed fusion, Grade III+ spondylolisthesis, multi-level fusion, tobacco use, diabetes, renal disease, alcoholism, or steroid use). Update prior authorization workflows to document these risk factors. Note that cervical fusion stimulators and semi-invasive devices are considered investigational and not covered.