All PlansCoverageLow impact
Decompression of the Intervertebral Disc Using Laser Energy (Laser Discectomy) or Radiofrequency-Coblation (Nucleoplasty)
Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi·Neurosurgery, Orthopedics, Pain Management +1 more·Medical Policy
Effective date
Jan 1, 2026
We identified it
Oct 17, 2026
Summary
This is historical material (source published 2026-09-17, discovered 2026-10-17). The most recent update was 2026-09-17, when the policy was reviewed with no substantive changes and the Code Reference section was updated to remove ICD-9 procedure code. The policy maintains its long-standing position that laser discectomy and radiofrequency coblation (disc nucleoplasty) remain investigational procedures. Billing teams should verify current applicability and confirm whether this practice's benefits plans classify these procedures as investigational or covered under any FEP exceptions.
Action Required
This policy update is historical material. The most recent substantive change was the Code Reference section update effective 2026-01-01 (revision to CPT code 62287 description). Already effective as of the analysis date: Verify whether the practice's current billing system reflects the removal of ICD-9 procedure codes (last updated 2026-09-17) and confirm that CPT codes 62267, 62287, and 77003 are correctly configured in the billing system with current code descriptions. Confirm with the practice's compliance team whether laser discectomy and radiofrequency coblation procedures are classified as investigational or covered under any plan-specific FEP exceptions, as the policy maintains investigational status except where FEP dictates assessment on medical necessity alone. No future deadlines or prospective actions are stated in this source.