Anthem Blue Cross Connecticut Commercial Clinical Policy

Anthem Blue Cross Connecticut SURG.00157 Minimally Invasive Treatment of the Posterior Nasal Nerve to Treat Rhinitis Form

Effective Date

12/28/2023

Last Reviewed

08/10/2023

Original Document

  Reference



This document addresses the use of minimally invasive techniques to inactivate the posterior nasal nerve (PNN) and thereby decrease the symptoms of chronic rhinorrhea or nasal congestion. Currently there are two devices on the market, the ClariFix® device (Stryker, Plymouth, MN) which is a cryotherapy tool and the RhinAer™ Stylus (Aerin Medical, Austin, TX) device which is a radiofrequency tool. There are studies underway evaluating laser ablation of the PNN, but there is no FDA approved device at this time.

Note: For additional information regarding treatment of rhinitis, please see:

  • MED.00091 Rhinophototherapy

Position Statement

Investigational and Not Medically Necessary:

Minimally invasive treatment of the posterior nasal nerve, such as cryotherapy or radiofrequency therapy, to decrease the symptoms of allergic or nonallergic rhinitis is considered investigational and not medically necessary in all cases.