Neuroablative Techniques for Chronic Pain - Medicare Advantage

This policy addresses neuroablative techniques (e.g., cryoneurolysis, radiofrequency ablation, chemical neurolysis, intraosseous basivertebral nerve ablation and related peripheral nerve procedures) for treatment of chronic pain. It is intended for patients with chronic facet joint, sacroiliac, hip/knee/pelvic osteoarthritis pain, headache/occipital neuralgia and other neuropathic or peripheral nerve pain syndromes, but coverage, specific criteria, and any prior authorization or frequency limits are governed by Medicare NCDs/LCDs and vary by MAC/jurisdiction (the excerpt notes chemical neurolysis causes permanent nerve ablation and the purported benefits of cooled RFA remain uncertain).

"Use of neuroablative techniques for the treatment of chronic pain (inferred from policy title: 'Neuroablative Techniques for Chronic Pain')."

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