Aetna considers radiostereometric analysis for migration and wear of orthopedic implants and for all other indications (e.g., assessment of spinal fusion, evaluation of stability in lateral calcaneal lengthening osteotomies, and prediction of long‐term outcome in total hip

Background Radiostereometric analysis (RSA) has been used to determine migration and wear of orthopedic implants. Radiostereometry makes use of a cage with control marker and fiducial to calculate a three dimensional (3D) coordinate system. Spherical tantalum markers are inserted into the bone and implant to identify distinct points of measurement for each part of the skeleton and implant involved. Tatalum markers are inserted using a steel cannula, the insertion of which into cortical or Last Review 10/27/2016 Effective: 10/10/2014 Next Review: 10/26/2017