Radiofrequency Denervation

TRICARE may cover non-pulsed radiofrequency denervation for the treatment of chronic cervical and lumbar facet. You must meet the following criteria:

• No prior spinal fusion surgery at the vertebral level being treated
• Low back or neck pain suggestive of facet joint origin, as evident by the absence of medically documented nerve root compression, and pain that doesn’t radiate to other parts of the body
• Pain has failed to respond to at least three months of conservative management (for example, acetaminophen, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, manipulation, physical therapy, or home exercise program)
• A trial of controlled diagnostic medial branch blocks under fluoroscopic guidance has resulted in at least a 50% reduction in pain

If there has been a prior successful radiofrequency denervation, and a minimum time of six months has elapsed since prior treatment (per side, per anatomical level of the spine).

Exclusions

TRICARE doesn’t cover pulsed radiofrequency ablation for spinal, back, or thoracic facet pain. Pulsed radiofrequency ablation isn’t a proven treatment for these conditions.