Published on 31 October 2024
By Admin
Expansion of the Medicare item number 6476 for MRI of rectal cancer commenced on November 1 2024.
The item now includes MRI of the pelvis for the initial staging, restaging or follow up of rectal cancer
63476 MRI—scan of the pelvis for the initial staging, restaging or follow up of rectal cancer, if:
(a) a high resolution T2 technique is used; and
(b) the request for the scan identifies that the indication is for:
(i) the initial staging of rectal cancer (including cancer of the rectosigmoid and anorectum); or
(ii) the initial assessment of response to chemotherapy or chemoradiotherapy; or
(iii) the assessment of possible recurrent tumour after complete response to neoadjuvant therapy, within an active surveillance program; or
(iv) the assessment of recurrent disease prior to treatment planning (R) (Contrast) (Anaes.)
An active surveillance program that is consistent with current evidence includes; 3 monthly MRI scans in combination with clinical assessment every 3 months for the first 1-2 years after treatment, followed by 6 monthly MRI scans and clinical assessment in years 2/3-5.
The ARGANZ Rectal focus group statement and more information that may be useful in discussions between radiologists and treating clinicians can be found on the Rectal Focus Group page.