Smith+Nephew's Game-Changing AGILI-C Cartilage Repair Implant Secures Category I CPT Code

Smith+Nephew, a global leader in medical technology, is celebrating a monumental achievement for its innovative CARTIHEAL AGILI-C Cartilage Repair Implant. The American Medical Association (AMA) has officially assigned a new Category I CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) code (27415) for autologous chondrocyte implantation in the knee, effective January 1, 2025.

This significant development is set to revolutionize patient access and consistent reimbursement for this advanced cartilage repair solution.

The newly designated CPT code 27415 specifically covers 'autologous chondrocyte implantation, knee, including perichondrium or periosteum harvest, fixation, and implantation.' This is a critical step forward, as a Category I CPT code is widely recognized and adopted by payers across the United States, providing a clear pathway for consistent reimbursement for eligible procedures.

This recognition underscores the clinical value and proven efficacy of the AGILI-C implant, paving the way for more patients suffering from debilitating knee cartilage injuries to access this transformative treatment.

AGILI-C stands out as an off-the-shelf, porous, acellular, bovine collagen-based scaffold designed for cartilage repair.

Its unique design and composition are engineered to facilitate the regeneration of healthy cartilage, offering a superior alternative to traditional treatments. The implant has garnered substantial support from a strong body of Level 1 clinical evidence, with studies published in prestigious journals like the American Journal of Sports Medicine (AJSM).

This research compellingly demonstrates AGILI-C's superiority over microfracture, a common alternative, in improving patient outcomes for knee cartilage repair.

The excitement surrounding this development is palpable within the medical community. Dr. Bert Mandelbaum, a prominent orthopedic surgeon at Santa Monica Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Group and Principal Investigator for the AGILI-C IDE trial, emphasized the profound impact: “The Category I CPT code is a huge milestone for both patients and the orthopedic community.

Having consistent reimbursement for a procedure that has shown such promise will dramatically improve access to AGILI-C and help more patients return to the activities they love.”

This CPT code announcement follows closely on the heels of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granting De Novo marketing authorization for AGILI-C in March 2024.

The combination of FDA approval and now a Category I CPT code solidifies AGILI-C’s position as a leading-edge solution in sports medicine and regenerative orthopedics.

Brad Cannon, President, Sports Medicine and Gynaecology at Smith+Nephew, highlighted the company’s dedication to advancing patient care: “Securing a Category I CPT code for AGILI-C is a testament to the rigorous clinical evidence supporting this truly innovative implant.

We are incredibly proud to bring this advanced solution to more patients, further solidifying our commitment to delivering best-in-class solutions that address unmet needs in sports medicine.”

With the new CPT code set to become active, Smith+Nephew is poised to significantly expand the reach of AGILI-C, empowering orthopedic surgeons to offer a proven, effective, and now widely reimbursable option for cartilage repair, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for countless individuals.