Benefit Category
Diagnostic Tests (other)
Note: This may not be an exhaustive list of all applicable Medicare benefit categories for this item or service.
Item/Service Description A. General
Microvolt T-wave Alternans (MTWA) testing is a non-invasive diagnostic test that detects minute electrical activity in a portion of the electrocardiogram (EKG) know as the T-wave. MTWA testing has a role in the risk stratification of patients who may be at risk for sudden cardiac death (SCD) from ventricular arrhythmias.
Within patient groups that may be considered candidates for implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) therapy, a negative MTWA test may be useful in identifying low-risk patients who are unlikely to benefit from, and who may experience worse outcomes from ICD placement.
The test is performed by placing highly sensitive electrodes on a patient's chest prior to a period of controlled exercise. These electrodes detect tiny beat-to-beat changes, on the order of one-millionth of volt, in the EKG T-wave. Spectral analysis is used to calculate these minute voltage changes. Spectral analysis is a sensitive mathematical method of measuring and comparing time and the EKG signals. Software then analyzes these microvolt changes and produces a report to be interpreted by a physician.
Indications and Limitations of Coverage Nationally Covered Indications
Microvolt T-wave Alternans diagnostic testing is covered for the evaluation of patients at risk for SCD, only when the spectral analysis method is used.
C. Nationally Non-Covered Indications
Microvolt T-wave Alternans diagnostic test is non-covered for the evaluation of patients at risk for SCD if measurement is not performed employing the spectral analysis.
D. Other
N/A
(This NCD last reviewed May 2008.)
