Microvolt T-wave Alternans

Microvolt T-wave Alternans (MTWA) testing is a non-invasive diagnostic test that detects minute electrical variability in a portion of the electrocardiogram known as the T-wave.   Published articles in peer reviewed medical journals have proposed a role for this test in the stratification of patients who may be at risk of sudden cardiac death from ventricular arrhythmias.

Medical literature suggests that, within patient groups that may be considered candidates for implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) placement, a negative MTWA test may be useful in identifying low-risk patients who are unlikely to benefit from, and who may experience worse outcomes from, ICD placement.

We have received a formal and complete request to open this NCD and to provide standard national coverage for this technology.  It is the requestor’s perception that coverage varies across local contractor jurisdictions.  In accordance with Section 1862(l) of the Social Security Act, we have opened a national coverage analysis to determine if there is sufficient evidence that MTWA testing is reasonable and necessary for the diagnosis and treatment of Medicare patients.

July 5, 2005

July 7, 2005

August 5, 2005

December 21, 2005

March 21, 2006