Head Imaging Guidelines

Covers advanced head imaging (CT, MRI, CTA/MRA, MRV, CT/MR perfusion, PET, SPECT) for specified neurologic indications—trauma, stroke/TIA, seizures, dementia, neurovascular disease, pituitary, MS, infection, etc.—but excludes routine imaging for primary headache without focal deficits/red flags and considers many volumetric/amyloid PET and other techniques investigational or non‑covered. Key requirements: prior documented pertinent clinical evaluation including detailed history, neurologic exam and relevant labs (with limited exceptions and allowance for scheduled surveillance), plus Medicare NCD‑level documentation for dementia/PET/SPECT and presurgical epilepsy PET (e.g., ≥6 months documented cognitive decline or equivalent testing, structural imaging, and specific lab results).

"Exclusions for Dix-Hallpike maneuver: Ehlers Danlos/Marfans/Connective tissue disorder due to risk of cranio spinal instability/dissection."