Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Head and Neck

MRI of the orbit, face, and neck is covered when medically necessary to diagnose or characterize pathology of the eye, nasopharynx, oropharynx, and neck including tumors, infection, soft-tissue lesions, and congenital abnormalities; contrast may be used when indicated. MRI is contraindicated in patients with implanted neurostimulators or cochlear implants and may be unsafe for patients with pacemakers, retained ocular metal, magnetic ocular implants, or older ferromagnetic aneurysm clips; CT is often preferred for acute trauma due to faster scanning. If MRI brain is performed the same day as MRI of the orbit/face/neck, the medical record must document the medical necessity for both procedures, and pre-imaging screening for implants/metal must be documented.

"MRI of the orbit, face, and/or neck is medically reasonable and necessary to diagnose or characterize pathology of the eye, nasopharynx, oropharynx, and neck including tumors, infection, soft-tissu..."