Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Cerebrospinal Venous Insufficiency in Multiple Sclerosis

This policy addresses balloon dilatation (with or without stenting) and related ultrasound diagnostic criteria for chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency (CCSVI) proposed as a vascular correlate and treatment in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). However, identification and endovascular treatment of CCSVI—including the "Liberation Procedure" and TVAM—are considered not medically necessary/experimental due to lack of randomized trial evidence and FDA approval, carry reported safety risks, and coverage is subject to member contract and state regulatory requirements (clinical trials require appropriate FDA investigational approvals).

"Balloon dilatation, with or without stenting, proposed to treat venous outflow obstruction (chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency, CCSVI) thought to be associated with multiple sclerosis"

Sign up to see full coverage criteria, indications, and limitations.