FAQs About Genicular Artery Embolization

What Is Genicular Artery Embolization?

GAE is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure for knee osteoarthritis that does not require general anesthesia, hospitalization, or significant downtime. According to the National Institutes of Health, GAE has an overall success rate of 99.7%.

Learn more about GAE now.

Is Genicular Artery Embolization Safe?

Yes, genicular artery embolization is safe.

GAE is a treatment alternative for patients who are poor surgical candidates, do not have debilitating OA knee pain, or do not want to undergo invasive surgery.

According to the National Institute of Health, OA treated by GAE is considered safe and has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use by the public.

If you have questions or concerns about the safety of GAE, a Georgia Knee Institute interventional radiologist physician will explain the risks and benefits related to your unique medical situation during your initial consultation with us.

What Does Genicular Artery Embolization Cost?

The short answer is that it depends.

GAE is a relatively new treatment, and each insurance company handles it differently. However, it is typically considered a covered procedure. Your out-of-pocket expenses will depend on your specific health insurance plan and deductibles.

If you need help determining cost, our experienced medical and billing team at Georgia Knee Institute can help you better understand your specific health insurance coverage.

Is Genicular Artery Embolization Covered by Medicare?

Medicare typically covers GAE, though prior authorization may be required. Your out-of-pocket expenses will depend on your specific plan and any coinsurance you have.

If you need help understanding your Medicare coverage for GAE, our experienced medical and billing team at Georgia Knee Institute can help you navigate your specific coverage options.

How Long Does Genicular Artery Embolization Last?

A typical GAE procedure takes about an hour to complete, with most patients resuming normal daily activities the following day. Though results may vary, a single GAE procedure's pain-relieving benefits can last six months to a year.

The good news is this minimally invasive procedure can be repeated as needed and does not increase your risk of total knee replacement.

What Is the Genicular Artery Embolization Recovery Time?

GAE is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure. You can return home on the same day as your appointment and resume normal activities the following day without needing extended rest or rehabilitation.

Immediately following the procedure, you should plan to spend a few hours in a comfortable recovery room to allow for local anesthesia to wear off.

The general recovery time for a genicular artery embolization procedure is minimal compared to total knee replacement surgery, and most patients recover within 1-2 days.

Does Genicular Artery Embolization Help Knee Pain?

Yes, the main goal of GAE is to reduce and eliminate knee pain from osteoarthritis.

GAE blocks blood flow to the inflamed areas of the knee joint to reduce symptoms of inflammation, swelling, and pain often associated with osteoarthritis.

Other benefits include:

• Minimally invasive
• Non-surgical
• No incisions
• No bone removal
• No general anesthesia
• No hospitalization
• Minimal side effects
• Long-lasting pain relief
• Delay or avoid knee replacement surgery

Schedule Your GAE Consultation at Georgia Knee Institute

Your knee health matters to us.

Are you ready to move forward with GAE to relieve unrelenting pain and symptoms? Our expert team of interventional radiologists is here for you every step of the way.

Call us at 678-915-2000 or book an online appointment to learn more and get started on your journey to knee-related pain relief today.