Cigna has Restricted its Coverage for Strapping Codes

Cigna recently announced a change to its medical coverage policy in regards to the following strapping codes:

29280 (hand/finger) 29540 (ankle/foot)

29550 (toes)

Per the change, 29280 will now only be covered for fractures or dislocations of the hand/fingers. 29540 will only be covered for acute sprains or strains of the ankle/foot. 29550 will only be covered for fractures or dislocations of the toes. This change will take effect on 5/15/2016.

When coding ICD-10 codes for these procedures, please note that Cigna will only allow the seventh digits “A” and “B” as indicative of “initial” treatment.

This policy change also states that strapping of the thorax, shoulder, elbow/wrist, hip, and knee are no longer considered medically necessary under any circumstance.