LCD/Coverage Frequently Asked Questions LCD/LPET Frequently Askde Questions 2nd Quarter Fiscal Year 2005 Q. Does Medicare cover the VAX-D procedure?
A. No. According to CMS Pub 100-03 Section 160.16 of the National Coverage Determinations Manual, Vertebral Axial Decompression (VAX-D) is considered non-covered. Listed below is the national policy statement: Vertebral axial decompression is performed for symptomatic relief of pain associated with lumbar disk problems. The treatment combines pelvic and/or cervical traction connected to a special table that permits the traction application. There is insufficient scientific data to support the benefits of this technique. Therefore, VAX-D is not covered by Medicare.
