Skip to main content
Orthopedic Surgery Denial

Cigna Denied Your Knee Replacement?

According to federal data, Cigna Healthcare (The Cigna Group) denies approximately 18.5% of claims. When patients appeal, about 52% are overturned. Your knee replacement denial may have grounds for a successful appeal.Sources: KFF ACA Marketplace Transparency Data, HHS OIG Reports, state insurance department filings. Rates are aggregate averages — individual results vary by plan type, denial reason, and documentation.

18.5%
Denial Rate
52%
Appeal Success
30-60 days
Typical Timeline
$30,000–$50,000
Typical Claim

Based on published government and industry research. Individual results vary based on denial type, insurer, and documentation.

Why Cigna Denies Knee Replacement

Not medically necessary — conservative treatment not exhausted

Prior authorization not obtained

BMI requirements not met per insurer guidelines

Cigna's Common Denial Tactics

Mass auto-denials (300,000 claims in 2 months at 1.2 seconds each)

Requiring step therapy for medications your doctor already tried

Denying claims as "experimental" despite FDA approval

How to Win Your Knee Replacement Appeal

Documentation of failed conservative treatments (PT, injections, bracing)

Radiology showing bone-on-bone or severe joint degeneration

Letter of medical necessity from treating orthopedic surgeon

Functional limitation documentation (inability to work, walk, climb stairs)

Laws That Protect You

ACA §2719 — Right to internal and external appeal

ERISA §503 — Right to a full and fair review

State parity laws for surgical coverage

Tips for Appealing to Cigna

Reference the ProPublica investigation into automated denials

Gather evidence of prior failed treatments to counter step therapy requirements

Obtain peer-reviewed studies supporting FDA-approved treatments

Ready to Review Your Knee Replacement Denial?

Upload your denial letter and get a clear analysis in minutes. We'll identify potential weaknesses in Cigna's reasoning and outline your appeal options.

Analyze My Denial Free

Analysis is always free. No credit card required.

This information is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal or medical advice. Statistics cited are from publicly available sources including KFF, HHS OIG, and state insurance department data. Individual results may vary. Consult a qualified professional before taking action on your specific situation.

Cigna Denied Your Knee Replacement? Here's How to Appeal | Lysco