Effective October 1, 2026, the NTAP designation allows for up to 65% reimbursement of the additional costs associated with the product for eligible Medicare beneficiaries. Developed by Westminster-based Cerapedics Inc., PearlMatrix is a Class III drug-device combination designed for skeletally mature patients suffering from degenerative disc disease.

Clinical data supporting the decision includes a pivotal study where the graft demonstrated superior fusion speed compared to local autografts. The trial results were particularly notable among high-risk populations, including patients with diabetes or higher BMI, where fusion rates were significantly higher at six, 12, and 24 months. Valeska Schroeder, CEO of Cerapedics, noted that the designation assists the company in advancing evidence-based solutions while potentially influencing broader commercial insurance adoption of the technology.