Nerve Blocks for Peripheral Neuropathy are not considered medically necessary
64450 INJECTION, ANESTHETIC AGENT; OTHER PERIPHERAL NERVE OR BRANCH
Coverage Indications, Limitations, and/or Medical Necessity
Nerve blocks cause the temporary interruption of conduction of impulses in peripheral nerves or nerve trunks by the injection of local anesthetic solutions.
The use of nerve blocks or injections for the treatment of multiple neuropathies or peripheral neuropathies caused by underlying systemic diseases is not considered medically necessary. Medical management using systemic medications is clinically indicated for the treatment of these conditions.
Limitations
The use of nerve blocks with or without the use of electrostimulation, and the use of electrostimulation alone for the treatment of multiple neuropathies or peripheral neuropathies caused by underlying systemic diseases is not considered medically reasonable and necessary.
At present, the literature and scientific evidence supporting the use of peripheral nerve blocks with or without the use of electrostimulation/electromagnetic stimulation, and the use of electrostimulation/ electromagnetic stimulation alone for neuropathies or peripheral neuropathies caused by underlying systemic diseases, is insufficient to warrant coverage. These procedures are considered investigational and are not eligible for coverage for the treatment of neuropathies or peripheral neuropathies caused by underlying systemic diseases.
The use of ultrasound guidance in conjunction with these non -covered injections is also considered not medically necessary and will result in denial.
Subcutaneous injections do not involve the structures described by CPT code 64450, direct injection into other peripheral nerves, but rather the injection of tissue surrounding a specific focus. These therapies are not to be coded using CPT code 64450. This code addresses the additional work of an injection of an anesthetic agent (nerve block), into relatively more difficult peripheral nerves, rather than that involved in an injection of relatively easily localized areas.
Treatment protocols utilizing multiple injections per day on multiple days per week for the treatment of multiple neuropathies or peripheral neuropathies caused by underlying systemic diseases are not considered medically necessary.
Peripheral nerve injections will not be allowed unless medical records are reviewed and the services are approved during the redetermination process.
Wisconsin Physicians Service Local Coverage Determination (LCD34673)
Effective June 15, 2014
Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska
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Editor: Philip Blann (pblann@anesthesiabilling.com).
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