What is Surgical Associates?

Surgical Associates, is a multi-location surgical practice established in 1984, specializing in minimally invasive, in-office vascular, thoracic, and surgical care. Their board-certified surgeons treat conditions like uterine fibroids, osteoarthritic knee pain, peripheral artery disease, and vein disorders across Maryland, Washington D.C., and Virginia.

Where are Surgical Associates' office locations?

Surgical Associates has five locations: Camp Springs, MD (5801 Allentown Road, Ste 502); Silver Spring, MD (10750 Columbia Pike #220); Waldorf, MD (11370 Pembrooke Square); Reston, VA (1860 Town Center Drive, Ste 180); and Washington, D.C. (1160 Varnum Street NE, Ste 318). All locations can be reached at (240) 427-1630.

How do I book a consultation at Surgical Associates?

You can book a consultation by calling (240) 427-1630 or by visiting the online booking page at sacmd.com/contact. The team will guide you through the scheduling process and answer any questions before your visit.

What treatments does Surgical Associates offer?

Surgical Associates offers a range of minimally invasive procedures including: Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) for knee pain, Laser Ablation and Vein Treatments, Angioplasty, Atherectomy and Stenting, Radiofrequency Ablation, General Surgery, Vascular Surgery, and Wound Care.

What is Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)?

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive procedure that treats noncancerous uterine fibroids without surgery or general anesthesia. Tiny particles are injected through a small catheter to block blood flow to the fibroids, causing them to shrink over time. Most patients experience symptom relief within a few weeks to a few months. The procedure typically takes 60-90 minutes, is performed under sedation, and most women return home the same day.

Is Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) painful?

Most patients experience mild to moderate cramping after UFE, which is well managed with medication provided by the care team. The procedure itself is performed under sedation to ensure comfort throughout.

How soon will I see results after UFE?

Many women notice symptom relief within a few weeks after UFE, with continued improvement over several months as the fibroids gradually shrink. Symptoms such as heavy bleeding and pelvic pressure typically reduce significantly during this period.

Will I need to stay overnight after UFE?

UFE is typically an outpatient procedure, and most patients go home the same day or after a short observation period. Recovery is faster than traditional fibroid surgery, with most patients resuming normal activities within a week or two.

Does UFE preserve fertility?

Yes. UFE is a uterus-sparing procedure, making it a safe option for women who wish to maintain fertility. The treatment targets fibroids while leaving healthy uterine tissue intact. Patients are encouraged to discuss their fertility goals with their provider during the consultation.

What is Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)?

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic osteoarthritic knee pain. It works by reducing blood flow to the inflamed lining of the knee joint, which helps decrease pain and improve mobility. GAE is designed for patients who have not found sufficient relief from other treatments and want to avoid or delay knee replacement surgery.

What vascular conditions does Surgical Associates treat?

Surgical Associates treats a wide range of vascular conditions including peripheral artery disease (PAD), varicose veins, venous insufficiency, and arterial blockages. Treatment options include angioplasty, atherectomy, stenting, laser ablation, radiofrequency ablation, and wound care for vascular-related wounds.

Are Surgical Associates' procedures performed in-office or in a hospital?

Most procedures at Surgical Associates are performed in-office as outpatient treatments, allowing for faster recovery and convenience. Some cases may be performed at select partner hospitals depending on the complexity of the procedure. The team will advise you on the appropriate setting during your consultation.

How experienced are the surgeons at Surgical Associates?

Surgical Associates' surgeons are board-certified with decades of experience. Dr. Rodeen Rahbar is a board-certified vascular surgeon with over 20 years of experience, has performed more than 1,500 interventions, and is recognized as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor. He trained at the University of Michigan, Marshall University, and Allegheny General Hospital, and previously served as an Assistant Professor of Vascular Surgery at George Washington University.

How long has Surgical Associates been in practice?

Surgical Associates has been serving patients since 1984, bringing over 40 years of experience in surgical and vascular care. The practice has evolved over the decades to focus on minimally invasive treatments for knee pain, uterine fibroids, and vascular conditions while maintaining its strong surgical heritage.

Is GAE Right for You? Knee Arthritis Self-Assessment Checklist

If you’ve been researching genicular artery embolization (GAE) for knee osteoarthritis, you’ve probably read about what it is, how it compares to knee replacement, and the science behind it. Now the question is personal: Could it work for me?

This self-assessment checklist is designed to help you organize your thoughts before scheduling a consultation. It’s not a diagnostic tool—only a clinical evaluation with imaging can determine true candidacy—but it can help you understand whether your situation fits the profile of patients who benefit most from GAE.

Part 1: Your Knee Condition

Check each statement that applies to you:

I’ve been diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis by a doctor
My X-rays or MRI show mild-to-moderate cartilage loss (not “bone-on-bone”)
My knee pain has been present for more than 3 months
My knee is often swollen or feels warm
My pain is worse with activity but also present at rest
I have morning stiffness that lasts less than 30 minutes (OA pattern, not inflammatory arthritis)

Scoring: If you checked 3 or more, your condition profile aligns with the patients who respond best to GAE in clinical trials.

Part 2: Your Treatment History

I’ve completed at least one course of physical therapy
I’ve taken NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) regularly for my knee pain
I’ve tried cortisone (steroid) injections, which helped temporarily but wore off
I’ve tried viscosupplementation (hyaluronic acid injections) without lasting benefit
I’ve tried PRP or other injectable treatments without adequate relief
Conservative treatments provided some relief but are no longer sufficient

Scoring: If you checked 2 or more, you’ve typically met the “failed conservative management” threshold used in GAE clinical trials. Most studies enrolled patients who had at least 3 months of conservative treatment without adequate pain control.

Part 3: Your Goals and Preferences

I want to avoid or delay knee replacement surgery
I want to preserve my natural joint as long as possible
I can’t afford a 3–6 month recovery from major surgery right now
I’d prefer a minimally invasive, same-day outpatient procedure
I want a treatment that doesn’t prevent future surgery if I eventually need it
I’m looking for a solution that lets me return to activity within days, not months

Scoring: If you checked 3 or more, your goals align with what GAE is designed to deliver.

Part 4: Factors That May Suggest GAE Is Not the Best Fit

Check any that apply:

My X-rays show severe bone-on-bone arthritis (KL grade 4) with no joint space remaining
My knee pain is primarily mechanical (locking, catching, giving way) rather than aching/inflammatory
I have significant knee deformity (bowing or knock-knee alignment)
My orthopedic surgeon has recommended knee replacement and I agree the time is right
I have inflammatory arthritis (rheumatoid arthritis, gout, psoriatic arthritis) rather than osteoarthritis

Scoring: If you checked 1 or more in this section, GAE may not be your best option. These situations typically call for joint replacement or rheumatologic management. However, it is still worth discussing with a GAE specialist because some patients with borderline indications may still benefit.

Interpreting Your Results

Strong candidate (Parts 1–3 score high, Part 4 score zero): Your profile closely matches the patients in GAE clinical trials who experienced 55% pain reduction at 12 months. A consultation is highly recommended.

Possible candidate (mixed scores): You may benefit from GAE, but there are factors that need clinical evaluation. Bring your imaging and treatment history to a consultation so Dr. Chun can assess your specific situation.

Likely not a candidate (Part 4 score high): Your knee condition may be better addressed by knee replacement or other treatments. That said, if you have persistent pain after a previous knee replacement, emerging evidence suggests GAE may still help.

What to Bring to Your GAE Consultation

To make the most of your appointment, bring your most recent knee X-rays or MRI (or the name of the imaging facility so we can request them), a list of all treatments you’ve tried and how long each provided relief, your current medications, a description of how your knee pain affects your daily life, and your questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What Kellgren-Lawrence grade is best for GAE?

A: GAE works best for KL grade 2–3 (mild-to-moderate OA). Grade 1 patients may not have enough inflammation to target, while grade 4 (severe bone-on-bone) patients typically need joint replacement.

Q: Do I need to fail other treatments before trying GAE?

A: Most clinical trials enrolled patients who had failed at least 3 months of conservative management. GAE is generally considered after physical therapy, NSAIDs, and/or injections haven’t provided adequate relief.

Q: Can GAE be done on both knees?

A: Yes. Both knees can be treated, typically in separate sessions spaced a few weeks apart.

Q: How do I get started?

A: Schedule a consultation at SACMD. Bring your most recent knee X-rays or MRI, and a list of treatments you’ve already tried.

The Bottom Line

This checklist is a starting point, not a final answer. Only a clinical evaluation—including a review of your imaging, symptoms, and medical history—can determine whether GAE is right for you. But if your self-assessment suggests you’re in the right category, the next step is straightforward.

Schedule a GAE consultation: Call (240) 427-1630 or visit www.sacmd.com

Disclaimer: This self-assessment is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is not a diagnostic tool.

Dr. Albert Chun

Dr. Chun is a board-certified interventional radiologist at Surgical Associates, specializing in minimally invasive, image-guided procedures that treat complex conditions without surgery. As a fellowship-trained interventional radiologist with an MBA and advanced expertise in embolization therapies, Dr. Chun is a trusted specialist serving patients across Maryland, Washington DC, and Northern Virginia. His focus areas include uterine fibroid embolization (UFE), genicular artery embolization (GAE) for knee osteoarthritis, and hemorrhoidal artery embolization (HAE)—procedures that offer meaningful relief with same-day recovery. Dr. Chun’s commitment to evidence-based, patient-centered care has made him a leading voice in minimally invasive treatment across the DMV region.

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Is GAE Right for You? A Self-Assessment Checklist for Knee Arthritis Patients