Phonophoresis for Medical Indications
DESCRIPTION
Phonophoresis is the use of ultrasound to enhance the delivery of topically applied drugs. Phonophoresis has been used in an effort to enhance the absorption of topically applied analgesics and anti-inflammatory agents through the therapeutic application of ultrasound.
POLICY
Phonophoresis for medical indications is considered investigational.
See also: Iontophoresis for Medical Indications
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The evidence in the literature is insufficient to permit conclusions regarding the health outcomes and effects of phonophoresis for medical indications.
SOURCES
Altchek, D. W., & Levinson, M. (2000). The painful shoulder in the throwing athlete. Orthopedic Clinics of North America, 31 (2), 241-245.
Gogstetter, S., & Goldsmith, L. A. (1999). Treatment of cutaneous sarcoidosis using phonophoresis. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 40 (5), 767-769.
Hayes. Medical Technology Directory. (2007, July). Ultrasound-Enhanced Transcutaneous Drug Delivery. Retrieved June 16, 2009 from www.Hayesinc.com/subscribers.
Mantone, J., Burkhead, W. Z., & Noonan, J. (2000). Nonoperative treatment of rotator cuff tears. Orthopedic Clinics of North America, 31 (2), 295-311.
National Guideline Clearinghouse. (2007). American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (ACOEM): Elbow Disorders. Retrieved on June 16, 2009 from http://www.guideline.gov/summary/summary.aspx?doc_id=10883&nbr=005681&string=phonophoresis.
National Guideline Clearinghouse. (2008, September). American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons clinical practice guidelines on the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome. Retrieved June 16, 2009 from http://www.guideline.gov/summary/summary.aspx?doc_id=13304&nbr=006751&string=phonophoresis.
Rand, S.E., Goerlich, C. & Marchand, Kristina. (2007). The physical therapy prescription. American Family Physician, 76 (11), 1161-1666.
Rosenstein, E. D. (1999). Topical agents in the treatment of rheumatic disorders. Rheumatic Diseases Clinics of North America, 25 (4) 899-918.
Saliba, S., Mistry, D.J., Perrin, D.H, Gieck, J. & Weltman, A. (2007). Phonophoresis and the absorption of dexamethasone in the presence of an occlusive dressing. Journal of Athletic Training, 42 (3), 349-354.
Srbely, J. Z. (2008). Ultrasound in the management of osteoarthritis: part I: a review of the current literature. Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, 52 (1), 30-37.
Van der Windt DAWM, Van der Heijden GJMG, Van den Berg SGM, Ter Riet G, De Winter AF, Bouter LM. Ultrasound therapy for acute ankle sprains (Cochrane Review). In: The Cochrane Library, Issue 4, 2003. Chichester, UK: John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
ORIGINAL EFFECTIVE DATE: 1/1/2001
MOST RECENT REVIEW DATE: 9/10/2009
ID_BT
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.
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