October 9, 2025 — Leads & Copy — Smith+Nephew (LSE:SN, NYSE:SNN) announced that the American Medical Association (AMA) CPT Editorial Panel has established a Category I Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) code for procedures involving its CARTIHEAL AGILI-C Cartilage Repair Implant, effective January 1, 2027.
The new CPT code recognizes the clinical significance and growing adoption of the CARTIHEAL Implant. The implant demonstrated an 87% reduction in the relative risk of total knee arthroplasty or osteotomy at 4 years compared to microfracture or debridement, according to data published from a multicenter randomized controlled trial. The CARTIHEAL Implant is commercially available in the United States, including Puerto Rico.
“This new CPT code is a major milestone for physicians and patients alike,” said Dr. Ken Zaslav of Northwell Health. “It validates the clinical value of the CARTIHEAL Implant and facilitates broader access to a technology that fills a true unmet need in the world of cartilage repair.”
The Category I CPT code will streamline reimbursement processes for providers and payers, supporting the integration of the CARTIHEAL Implant into standard clinical practice. It also reflects the AMA’s recognition of the procedure’s clinical efficacy, safety, and widespread physician adoption.
The CARTIHEAL Implant is composed of aragonite, a naturally occurring calcium carbonate, and acts as a biphasic scaffold that allows it to repair cartilage and restore subchondral bone.
Contact:
Dave Snyder +1 (978) 749-1440
david.snyder@smith-nephew.com
Source: Smith+Nephew
