Radiofrequency ablation of the nasal turbinates is eligible for reimbursement when performed for the purpose of reducing hypertrophy of nasal turbinates (478.0).

Patients treated surgically with radiofrequency ablation of the turbinates should have a history of incomplete or failed conventional medical management documented in their medical records.

Occasionally, it may be necessary to repeat this service in patients who experience incomplete relief of their symptoms. It should not be necessary to repeat the procedure more often than once within a twelve-month period of time for a total of two treatments. Claims reporting a third treatment with radiofrequency ablation should be referred to a medical advisor for a medical necessity determination.  Services denied on the basis of medical necessity are nonbillable by participating, preferred, or network providers.

NOTE:

Refer to Medical Policy Bulletin Z-8 for guidelines on Radiofrequency Ablation of the palate and/or tongue base for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea.

Description

Radiofrequency tissue ablation, procedure code 30802, is a surgical procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to heat and destroy submucosal tissue resulting in the reduction of tissue volume. Radiofrequency ablation of the turbinates (somnoplasty of the turbinates) is performed to relieve nasal obstruction that is secondary to inferior turbinate hypertrophy. Over a period of three to six weeks following the procedure, the body naturally absorbs the ablated tissue resulting in partial or complete relief of nasal congestion.

NOTE:

This policy is designed to address medical guidelines that are appropriate for the majority of individuals with a particular disease, illness, or condition. Each person's unique clinical circumstances may warrant individual consideration, based on review of applicable medical records.

PRN References

04/2000, Radiofrequency ablation of nasal turbinates

Nasal Turbinate Somnoplasty: Utilization of Radiofrequency to Treat Chronic Nasal Obstruction and Congestion, ACOMS, 1999

Radiofrequency bipolar submucosal diathermy of the inferior turbinates, American Journal of Rhinology, Vol. 13, No. 2, March-April 1999

Radiofrequency Energy Tissue Ablation for the Treatment of Nasal Obstruction Secondary to Turbinate Hypertrophy, Laryngoscope, Vol.109, May 1999

Radiofrequency Thermoablation of the Inferior Turbinate in Nasal Obstruction, COSM, 1999