Tricare now covers less invasive back surgery
http://www.armytimes.com/news/2008/07/military_back_surgery_071908/
Two minimally invasive back surgeries that can replace spinal fusion are
now covered by Tricare in a policy change retroactive to March 1, 2007.
Percutaneous vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty are outpatient surgeries for
fractured vertebrae that can have patients back to relative normality
within 24 hours. The traditional treatment has been spinal fusion
surgery, which requires up to 12 hours in the operating room and days of
hospitalization afterward.
The alternative surgeries involve placing a special bone cement into the
fractured vertebra through small incisions in the skin.
“Our major concern in approving any procedure for coverage under Tricare
is the safety of beneficiaries,” said Army Maj. Gen. Elder Granger,
deputy director of the Tricare Management Activity. “Both of these
surgeries are accepted by the medical community and Tricare.”
Vertebral fractures usually occur in patients with osteo****osis, and
many heal in about three months with bed rest and anti-inflammatory
medication. It is only when pain persists beyond three months that
surgery is recommended, Tricare officials said.
Patients must get approval for either surgery from their Tricare provider.
Those with questions about the procedures and their coverage under
Tricare should contact their primary care manager, officials said.
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