Thermography
DESCRIPTION
Thermography is a non-invasive imaging technique that is intended to measure temperature distribution of various organs and tissues. The infrared radiation from the tissues reveals temperature variations by producing brightly colored patterns on a liquid crystal display. Interpretation of these color patterns, according to designated anatomic distribution, is thought to aid in diagnosing a vast array of diseases.
Thermography can include various types of telethermographic infrared detectors/imagers. Thermography can also include heat-sensitive cholesteric liquid crystal systems.
POLICY
The use of all forms of thermography for the treatment of any condition is considered investigational.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The scientific literature is inadequate to validate the clinical role of thermography. No published studies were found that demonstrated how the results of thermography could be used to enhance an individual's management and improve health outcomes.
Thermography does not meet the following technology evaluation criteria:
The scientific evidence must permit conclusions concerning the effect of the technology on health outcomes.
The technology must improve the net health outcome.
The technology must be as beneficial as any established alternatives.
The improvement must be attainable outside the investigational settings.
SOURCES
Agency for Healthcare Research & Quality. (1994). Back pain patient outcomes assessment team (BOAT). Retrieved December 28, 2005 from http://www.ahrq.gov/clinic/medtep/backpain.htm.
American Academy of Neurology. (1990). Assessment: Thermography in neurologic practice. The American Academy of Neurology, Therapeutics and Technology Assessment Subcommittee. Neurology, 40 (3 Pt 1), 523-525.
American Medical Association. H-175.988 Thermography update. Retrieved December 28, 2005 from http://www.ama-assn.org/apps/pf_online/pf_online?f_n=browse&doc=policyfiles/HOD/H-175.988.HTM.
BlueCross BlueShield Association. Medical Policy Reference Manual. (3:2005). Thermography (6.01.12). Retrieved March 25, 2003 from BlueWeb.
Completed Guide to Medicare Coverage Issues [Computer software]. (2005, November). Thermography (NDC 220.11, p. 2-173). St. Anthony Publishing.
Health Technology Assessment Information Service. Custom Hotline Response. (2005, April). Thermography for detection of breast mass. Retrieved December 28, 2005 from ECRI HTAIS.
Health Technology Assessment Information Service. Custom Hotline Response. (2005, July). Thermography for diagnosing cardiovascular disease. Retrieved December 28, 2005 from ECRI HTAIS.
National Guideline Clearinghouse. (2004). Diagnosis and classification of primary headache disorders. In: Standards of care for headache diagnosis and treatment. Retrieved December 28, 2005 from http://www.guideline.gov/summary/summary.aspx?doc_id=6111&nbr=003966&string=thermography.
|
EFFECTIVE DATE |
2/9/2006 |
|
Policies included in the Medical Policy Manual are not intended to certify coverage availability. They are medical determinations about a particular technology, service, drug, etc. While a policy or technology may be medically necessary, it could be excluded in a member's benefit plan. Please check with the appropriate claims department to determine if the service in question is a covered service under a particular benefit plan. Use of the Medical Policy Manual is not intended to replace independent medical judgment for treatment of individuals. The content on this Web site is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice in any way. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider if you have questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.
This document has been classified as public information.