CommercialCoverageLow impact
11.15.15g, Percutaneous Discectomy
Independence Blue Cross·PA · Neurosurgery, Orthopedics, Pain Management·Medical Policy
We identified it
Jun 19, 2026
Summary
Independence Blue Cross reissued policy 11.15.15h on 07/09/2025, maintaining its existing position that percutaneous discectomy (including endoscopic approaches) remains experimental/investigational and is NOT covered, despite FDA device approval. No substantive coverage changes occurred; this is a routine annual reissue. Billing teams must continue denying all percutaneous discectomy claims across CPT codes 62330, 62331, and 62380.
Action Required
Verify that billing system rules remain in place to deny all claims for CPT codes 62330, 62331, and 62380 when billed to Independence Blue Cross commercial plans, with denial reason 'Experimental/Investigational - Not Covered.' No workflow changes are required as policy position has not changed. Ensure denial templates reference policy 11.15.15h (superseding 11.15.15g) if appeals are received. Staff should be aware that FDA approval of devices does not override IBX's non-coverage determination based on clinical evidence review.