Magnetic Resonance Angiography of the Circle of Willis in Patients with Symptomatic Intracranial Neuropathology: Medicare LCD L25367(R4)

Patients with symptomatic intracranial neuropathology such as atherosclerotic occlusive disease or unruptured aneurysms face high risks for morbidity and mortality. Magnetic resonance angiography of the circle of Willis is an important tool used to detect and diagnose intracranial neuropathology; however, recent changes to the Medicare local coverage determinations for this procedure threaten to compromise the physician's ability to deliver this current standard of care. Physicians can assume an important role in advocating for this lifesaving procedure on behalf of this vulnerable patient population. J Neuroimaging 2012;22:118-121.