All PlansCoverageMedium impact
Interspinous Fixation (Fusion) Devices
Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi·MS · Orthopedics, Neurosurgery·Medical Policy
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
This policy update maintains that interspinous fixation (fusion) devices remain investigational and not covered for any indication, whether used in combination with interbody fusion or alone for spinal decompression. The policy description was updated but the coverage determination remains unchanged from previous versions.
Action Required
Immediately: Billing team must ensure all interspinous fixation device procedures are coded with CPT 22899 (Unlisted procedure, spine) and flagged as investigational/not covered. Notify spine surgeons that these devices remain non-covered regardless of indication. Claims for these procedures will be denied as investigational.