Maryland Code, Labor and Employment § 9-645

(b)(1) The Commission may excuse a refusal to undergo surgery if the covered employee satisfies the Commission that it is considered unsafe for the covered employee to undergo surgery because of the age or previous physical condition of the covered employee.

(2) If the Commission excuses a refusal to undergo surgery under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the employer or its insurer shall pay the covered employee compensation for 52 weeks.