Highmark Inc. Says It Won't Cover Laparoscopic Power Morcellation Because Of Cancer Risk

Highmark Inc., one of the largest Blue Cross Blue Shield plan providers in the U.S., said Saturday it would pull its coverage of laparoscopic power morcellation because it could spread cancer in women undergoing gynecological surgery. The procedure involves a bladed device that cuts up fibroid tumors and, when cancer is present, may distribute the cells over a wider area.