Transcranial Doppler Studies

Transcranial Doppler is covered for evaluation of suspected severe intracranial arterial stenosis with focal ischemia, assessment of collateral circulation in known severe stenosis/occlusion, post-subarachnoid hemorrhage vasospasm monitoring, assessment of arteriovenous malformations, and evaluation when brain death is suspected. Headache or dizziness alone do not justify TCD unless accompanied by localizing neurologic findings; monitoring drug effects on cerebral vascular resistance is investigational and not covered. Examinations must produce hard-copy, bidirectional-flow–capable records and meet accepted national standards, and coverage is subject to contractor determination of reasonable and necessary.

"Transcranial Doppler (TCD) is covered for patients with suspected severe intracranial arterial stenosis when there is documented clinical evidence of focal cerebral ischemia and knowledge of the st..."