Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)
A minimally invasive option for chronic knee osteoarthritis pain
Genicular Artery Embolization is a catheter-based treatment designed to reduce abnormal blood flow associated with inflammation around an arthritic knee. It may be considered for people who continue to have knee pain despite conservative care and want to explore an option before major joint surgery.
What is Genicular Artery Embolization?
GAE is a minimally invasive procedure that targets small genicular arteries supplying areas of the knee affected by osteoarthritis-related inflammation. Using imaging guidance, a physician advances a thin catheter through an artery to reach the small vessels around the knee.
Tiny embolic particles are then delivered to reduce excessive blood flow in the inflamed tissue. The goal is to calm inflammation and reduce pain while preserving the knee joint itself.
GAE does not replace damaged cartilage and is not a cure for osteoarthritis. Instead, it is intended to address one of the processes that can contribute to ongoing pain and inflammation.
Who may be a candidate for GAE?
A consultation is needed to determine whether GAE is appropriate. It may be considered when several of the following apply:
Persistent osteoarthritis pain
Knee pain continues despite appropriate conservative treatments such as activity changes, physical therapy, medications, or injections.
Looking for a minimally invasive option
You want to discuss a treatment that does not involve replacing the knee joint and may offer a shorter recovery than major surgery.
Appropriate clinical findings
Your symptoms, exam, imaging, medical history, and vascular health support GAE as a reasonable treatment option.
Why patients consider Genicular Artery Embolization
Minimally invasive
GAE is performed through a small catheter rather than an incision into the knee joint.
Joint-preserving approach
The procedure targets blood vessels involved in inflammation without replacing the knee.
Often outpatient
Many patients can return home the same day, depending on their health and the specifics of the procedure.
What to expect from the GAE process
1. Evaluation
Your physician reviews your symptoms, prior treatments, imaging, medications, and health history.
2. Catheter access
A small catheter is guided through an artery toward the genicular vessels around the painful knee.
3. Embolization
Tiny particles are delivered to selected small vessels to reduce excessive blood flow associated with inflammation.
4. Recovery and follow-up
You receive individualized instructions for activity, access-site care, medications, and follow-up after the procedure.
Recovery and results
Recovery after GAE is generally less extensive than recovery after knee replacement, but every patient is different. Temporary soreness or bruising can occur near the catheter access site, and your physician will tell you when to resume normal activities.
Pain relief is not immediate or guaranteed. Some patients notice improvement over the weeks that follow as inflammation decreases. The amount and duration of relief vary based on the individual and the severity of osteoarthritis.
Important to know
GAE is not right for everyone. Your physician will discuss expected benefits, alternatives, and risks, which can include bruising or bleeding at the access site, contrast reactions, vessel injury, and unintended embolization.
Why choose Knee Pain Centers of America?
Our focus is helping patients understand the source of their knee pain and explore treatment options that fit their condition, health history, and goals. A GAE consultation includes a careful review of your symptoms, prior care, imaging, and whether this minimally invasive approach makes sense for you.
Frequently asked questions about GAE
Is GAE the same as knee surgery?
No. GAE is a catheter-based vascular procedure and does not involve replacing the knee joint.
How long does the procedure take?
Procedure time varies depending on anatomy and treatment needs. Your care team will explain the expected schedule before treatment.
When might I notice pain relief?
Improvement can develop gradually over the following weeks. Individual results and duration of relief vary.
Can GAE eliminate the need for knee replacement?
GAE may help some patients manage pain without immediate joint replacement, but it does not guarantee that surgery will never be needed.
Does insurance cover GAE?
Coverage varies by insurer and plan. Our office can help you understand the verification process for your specific situation.
How do I know if I qualify?
The first step is an evaluation. A physician can determine whether your knee pain, osteoarthritis findings, and medical history make GAE appropriate to consider.
Ready to find out if GAE may be right for your knee pain?
Schedule a consultation with Knee Pain Centers of America to discuss your symptoms, previous treatments, and next-step options.
