Thoracic Aortography and Carotid, Vertebral, and Subclavian Angiography

Thoracic aortography and carotid/vertebral/subclavian angiography are covered when needed to define vascular occlusive disease, hemorrhage etiology, tumor vascular supply, aneurysms/vascular malformations, congenital or acquired vascular abnormalities, or when prior noninvasive testing or clinical history supports severely stenotic/ulcerated carotid disease, ischemic cerebral symptoms, trauma, or upper-extremity vascular conditions. Relative contraindications (e.g., severe hypertension, uncorrectable coagulopathy, iodinated contrast allergy, renal insufficiency based on eGFR, CHF, connective tissue disorders) require consideration and adherence to ACR/SIR/ACC/SVS equipment and radiation standards; documentation of medical necessity, imaging, and provider qualifications must be maintained and made available upon request.

"Contrast angiography is medically necessary to define the presence or extent of vascular occlusive disease and thromboembolic phenomena."