Irreversible Electroporation (IRE)

This policy covers irreversible electroporation (IRE), including the NanoKnife System, as a locoregional ablative therapy for select tumors—notably hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), and small single tumors (typically ≤3 cm) or lesions near vessels/bile ducts where thermal ablation is limited, and includes FDA‑approved NanoKnife use for prostate cancer (Dec 2024). Coverage requires medical necessity per policy criteria and the member’s benefit plan/contract (state rules may apply); IRE/NanoKnife is considered experimental, investigational, and not covered for other indications or many soft tissue/solid organ uses unless specified criteria are met.

"Irreversible electroporation (IRE) for treatment of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma when medically necessary per policy criteria."

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