Distraction Osteosynthesis

The Ilizarov method is covered only when the member has an angular/rotational deformity of a long bone, a bone defect (with or without deformity), or a limb length discrepancy (with or without deformity) AND meets at least one selection criterion: leg length discrepancy >6 cm, arm length discrepancy >5 cm, nonunion of a long-bone fracture ≥6 months after failed electrical stimulation and bone grafting, or an angular/rotational deformity causing functional impairment after failure of other treatments. All other uses are experimental/investigational (including ISKD, pulsed low‑intensity ultrasound adjuncts, and implantable magnetically activated/Phenix nails), and Ilizarov for short stature is cosmetic and not covered.

"Use of circular ring external fixation (Ilizarov) for infected nonunions, segmental defects, and complex reconstructions (including combined bone and soft-tissue defects)."