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Blue Cross & Blue Shield of MississippiAll Plans · Coverage · Medical Policy · OrthopedicsMedium impact

Hip Resurfacing

Effective date
Not stated in the notice
Identified
Jun 20, 2026

Summary

Metal-on-metal total hip resurfacing with an FDA approved device system may be considered medically necessary as an alternative to total hip replacement when the individual is a candidate for total hip replacement, is likely to outlive a traditional prosthesis, and has no contraindication for total hip resurfacing. Partial hip resurfacing with an FDA-approved device may be considered medically necessary in individuals with osteonecrosis of the femoral head who have one or more contraindications for metal-on-metal implants and meet the listed criteria, and all other types and applications of hip resurfacing are considered investigational. A 09/18/2026 review left the policy statements unchanged and removed ICD-9 procedure and diagnosis codes from the code reference.

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What to do

Action · 4 steps
01Billing team: Bill CPT 27299 and HCPCS S2118 for hip resurfacing only when the policy criteria are met, because these codes are medically necessary only when the procedure is performed according to the Policy section.
02Document that the individual is a candidate for total hip replacement, is likely to outlive a traditional prosthesis, and has no contraindication to total hip resurfacing, since the policy makes no payment for services not documented to be medically necessary.
03For partial hip resurfacing, document one or more contraindications to metal-on-metal implants, known or suspected metal sensitivity or concern about potential effects of metal ions, no more than 50% involvement of the femoral head, and minimal change in acetabular cartilage or articular cartilage space on radiography.
04Contraindications listed in the policy include inadequate bone stock, skeletal immaturity, known moderate-to-severe renal insufficiency, severe overweight, known or suspected metal sensitivity, immunosuppression or high-dose corticosteroids, and childbearing potential because of unknown fetal effects of metal ion release.

Codes mentioned

27299S2118

Original notice

Hip Resurfacing
bcbsms.com · Always check the source before changing claims.
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Related changes

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Surgery for Groin Pain in AthletesMediumNo effective date · Medical PolicySurgical Treatment of Femoroacetabular ImpingementMediumNo effective date · Medical PolicyBrowse every Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi change in the policy list

Related policy hubs

Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi policiesOrthopedicsCode 27299Code S2118

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