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National Coverage Determination (NCD) for Vertebral Axial Decompression (VAX-D) (160.16)

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Publication Number

100-3

Manual Section Number

160.16

Manual Section Title

Vertebral Axial Decompression (VAX-D)


Version Number

1

Effective Date of this Version

4/15/1997

Implementation Date

4/15/1997



Benefit Category
Physicians' Services
Note: This may not be an exhaustive list of all applicable Medicare benefit categories for this item or service.

Item/Service Description

Vertebral axial decompression is performed for symptomatic relief of pain associated with lumbar disk problems. The treatment combines pelvic and/or cervical traction connected to a special table that permits the traction application.


Indications and Limitations of Coverage

There is insufficient scientific data to support the benefits of this technique. Therefore, VAX-D is not covered by Medicare.


Transmittal Number

93

Revision History

3/97 - Provided that VAX-D not covered by Medicare. Effective date 4/15/1997. (TN 93)


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