LCDActive
Nail Debridement
L33922
Effective: November 28, 2019
Updated: December 31, 2025
Policy Summary
Medicare covers nail debridement for documented mycotic nail infection when clinical findings (discoloration, onycholysis, subungual debris, thickening, or secondary skin infection) are present and, for toenails, when ambulation-related limitation, pain, or secondary infection from thickening/dystrophy is documented for ambulatory or non-ambulatory patients as specified. Appropriate antifungal therapy must be provided unless a documented contraindication exists, and local contractors/LCDs may further define reasonable and necessary circumstances for coverage.
Coverage Criteria Preview
Key requirements from the full policy
"Clinical evidence of mycotic (fungal) infection of the nail demonstrated by discoloration, onycholysis, subungual debris, thickening, or secondary skin infection."
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