Optical Coherence Tomography for Imaging of Coronary Arteries

This policy addresses intravascular optical coherence tomography (OCT) for coronary artery imaging — including high‑resolution plaque characterization and risk stratification, guidance and assessment of stent deployment and neointimal coverage, differentiation of plaque erosion versus rupture in acute coronary syndrome, and evaluation of intermediate coronary stenoses (as an alternative or complement to IVUS). Coverage is subject to the member’s benefit plan (the contract governs), and major limitations include limited tissue penetration and imaging through blood, measurement variability and limited prospective outcome data; several uses (e.g., OCT as an adjunct to PCI, for plaque risk stratification, and routine stent follow‑up) are considered experimental/investigational, and this policy version is inactive for claims adjudication.

"Evaluation of coronary artery plaque characteristics for risk stratification."