Genicular Artery Embolization

This policy addresses genicular artery embolization (GAE) — selective embolization of geniculate branches — for symptomatic knee osteoarthritis and historically for knee hemarthrosis. GAE is considered experimental/investigational with insufficient evidence for routine use, is not covered for degenerative joint disease, osteoarthritis, or as a treatment before/after knee replacement (including for patients not candidates for replacement), and should be performed only in research settings (e.g., clinical trials); Medicare coverage may be determined locally.

"Symptomatic knee osteoarthritis (OA) — geniculate artery embolization (GAE) to selectively embolize geniculate branches and inhibit neovascularity that contributes to OA-related inflammation and pain."

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