Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to all of your questions
Price, Insurance, and Billing
#1 - How much does the brace cost?
The brace is covered by most standard insurance. While the retail price is $1,395 for a custom brace and $995 for an off-the-shelf brace, the average cost to our customers after insurance coverage is under $200. If you do not have insurance, we offer financing options for up to 24 months.
#2 - Will my insurance pay for the brace?
Typically, private health insurance plans help cover the cost of the brace. However, to determine the extent of your coverage, you’ll need a prescription from your doctor for the knee brace. It’s important to ensure that documentation of knee instability, often confirmed through joint laxity testing, is included in your medical records. We recommend discussing this matter with your healthcare provider for further guidance.
#3 - Does Medicare cover the cost of the brace?
Medicare will help cover the cost of the brace with a prescription from your doctor.
#4 - How do I know my VA disability rating? Does this affect me receiving the brace through the VA?
Your disability rating has nothing to do with the fact the VA can and will cover your Icarus Ascender brace. To request a letter which discloses your current disability rating, contact the VA at 800-827-1000 or email them at http://iris.va.gov. You may also sign up for electronic benefits (eBenefits) at www.ebenefits.va.gov or call 800-827-1000 (select option #7) or visit your local VA regional office.
Ordering My Ascender
#1 - How long will it take to get my brace after ordering?
Once we’ve received your scan and prescription, you will receive your brace within 12 business days. We will reach out to you with tracking information when your brace is ready to ship.
Product Use
#1 - Patient has trouble wearing the brace under clothing due to it rubbing/ irritating the skin.
We can work through some solutions to get you some more comfort. First, we’d love to hear your overall feedback on the brace. Do you feel that it’s helping your knee pain? We can send you an undersleeve right away to help with the irritation.
#2 - What size do I need?
Our technology allows us to build a custom knee brace specific to your sizing using a 3D scan of your knee. Our customers are seeing great results with the custom fitting process. We also offer an off-the-shelf version that ranges in size from XS – XXL. Sizing is based on three circumference measurements on your leg.
#3 - Will I be able to run, play sports, etc. again with the brace?
The brace is engineered to enhance mobility and help patients resume activities restricted by knee pain. We witness patients rediscovering a range of activities daily. Consult your doctor about which activities they deem safe for you to return to.
Customer Support and Guarantees
#1 - Is there a warranty on the brace?
For the custom Ascender Knee Brace, we offer a 5-year warranty on the frame, hinge, and tensioning system, along with a 6-month warranty on the straps and pads. For the off-the-shelf Ascender, the warranty includes 2 years of coverage for the frame, hinge, and tensioning system, and 6 months for the straps and pads.
#2 - Is the brace made in America?
Yes, the Ascender is made and assembled in the USA.
#3 - Who do I contact if I have questions or concerns with my brace?
Please email support@icarusmedical.com or call 888-492-1101.
App Support and Clinician Resources
#1 - The screen is black. How do I start scanning?
Answer A: Try closing the app and re-opening it. Any iPhone can take the scan. (Casting is an option if scan not possible, or offer using STL scanning app if you already have another you use.
Answer B: Ensure you are using the appropriate device or have updated to the proper IOS for optimal use of the app.
#2 - Can I send a cast instead of a scan?
Absolutely. We will then scan the cast.
#3 - Do I order using Hangar Direct/Symbiont?
Answer A: HD is for custom – code is ASC-C010 or search “Ascender”
Answer B: SPS (symbiont) is for OTS – code is ASC-S010 or search “Ascender”
#4 - How much of the leg needs to be scanned?
300 degrees of the leg, 8” above and below knee center. (270 at minimum)
#5 - What are the billing codes for a custom brace and OTS brace?
Custom Brace: L1846
OTS Brace: L1845 or L1852
#6 - How does the app/scan calibrate the precise size of the leg when a scan is sent in?
Icarus has done extensive testing to validate the precision of our app’s digital scan vs analog methods (i.e. using a tape measure).
Our findings indicate the scan is at least as accurate as traditional tape measuring and more reproducible. Icarus Medical has now fit over 4,000 custom braces with this technique. We have a rework rate of under 0.5%.
#7 - What is the LLD? What is the difference between that and the other anti-migration systems?
The Lower Load Distributor (LLD), is an accessory which creates a wedge above the calf muscle allowing the brace to maintain its position.
#8 - How do I get a good scan?
With the patient standing, knee in neutral position (not locked), start with the medial condyle in center camera view.
See our Straight Shot (SS) scanning guide on our Resources tab.
Routing Questions by Topic / Department
#1 - How to contact us
Unable to to find the answer you’re looking for? Reach out to our customer support team!
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