Clinical BackgroundĬhronic venous insufficiency (CVI) of the lower extremities is a condition caused by abnormalities of the venous wall and valves, leading to obstruction or reflux of blood flow in the veins. This memorandum serves four purposes: (1) outlines the description and treatment of chronic venous insufficiency (2) reviews the history of Medicare's national coverage policies for pneumatic compression pumps for the treatment of generalized refractory edema from venous insufficiency (3) presents and analyzes the relevant clinical and scientific data related to the use of pneumatic compression pumps for venous insufficiency, and (4) delineates the rationale for our decision not to make any changes to this portion of the national coverage determination. Medical Officer, Division of Items and Devices Policy Analyst, Division of Items and Devices
Pneumatic Compression Devices for the treatment of generalized, refractory edema from venous insufficiency
