Coverage of Conditions and Treatments (Coverage Decisions)
L&I does not cover the UniSpacer device because of an absence of clinical data and published literature regarding its safety and efficacy.
The UniSpacer is a small, kidney shaped insert made of cobalt chrome for patients with early stage osteoarthritis of the knee. The UniSpacer is said to treat isolated, moderate degeneration of the medial compartment (Grade III-IV chondromalacia) with no more than minimal degeneration (Grade I-II chondromalacia, no loss of joint space) in the lateral condyle or patellofemoral compartment. The goals of UniSpacer surgery are to relieve pain and to improve joint stability by restoring ligament tension and normal knee alignment.