Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)

A Minimally Invasive Option for Chronic Knee Pain from Osteoarthritis. GAE is a minimally invasive procedure that reduces chronic knee pain by targeting and blocking small abnormal blood vessels (genicular arteries) that contribute to joint inflammation.

Contact AVC to see if you are a candidate for Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE).

OVERVIEW

Overview of Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)

Millions suffer from knee osteoarthritis, a condition that causes joint stiffness, swelling, and chronic pain. For many, medications, physical therapy, injections, or even surgery have limited or temporary results.

If you experience:

Persistent knee pain, especially during activity
Swelling or stiffness that limits mobility
Pain that doesn’t improve with NSAIDs or injections
You want to avoid or delay joint replacement surgery

Then Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) may be the innovative, non-surgical solution you’ve been waiting for.

What Is Genicular Artery Embolization?

GAE is a minimally invasive procedure that reduces chronic knee pain by targeting and blocking small abnormal blood vessels (genicular arteries) that contribute to joint inflammation.

In osteoarthritis, abnormal vessel growth in the knee can lead to:

Chronic inflammation
Joint pain and swelling
Ongoing irritation of the surrounding nerves

GAE uses advanced imaging to guide a catheter into these abnormal vessels, then injects tiny medical particles to block them off, reducing inflammation and pain without altering bone or joint structure.

Benefits of Genicular Artery Embolization

Non-surgical – No cutting, implants, or hospital stay
Quick recovery – Most patients return to normal activity within 1–3 days
Long-term pain relief – Results often last for months to years
Delays or avoids knee replacement surgery
Performed under local anesthesia – No general anesthesia required
Preserves the natural knee structure

GAE is especially effective for patients with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis who are not ready or able to undergo knee replacement.

Why Choose Advanced Vascular Centers?

Board-certified interventional specialists
Outpatient care with no general anesthesia or hospital stay
Advanced imaging and catheter technology
Close coordination with orthopedic and pain specialists
Customized care plan focused on long-term pain relief

PROCEDURE

The GAE Procedure

At Advanced Vascular Centers, GAE is performed by expert interventional specialists using advanced imaging and catheter-based technology.

1. Evaluation & Imaging

We review your symptoms, exam findings, and prior imaging (X-ray, MRI, or CT angiography) to confirm your diagnosis and identify abnormal blood flow to the knee.

2. During the Procedure

You’ll receive local anesthesia at the access site (usually the groin or wrist)
A catheter is inserted and guided into the genicular arteries supplying the knee joint
Microscopic embolic particles are injected to block the abnormal vessels
The catheter is removed, and a small bandage is applied—no stitches, no open incisions

3. Recovery

You’ll go home the same day
Most patients resume light activity in 1–3 days
Pain relief typically begins within 1–4 weeks and continues to improve for months

What Results Can I Expect?

GAE provides meaningful relief for many people with chronic knee pain:

Reduced knee pain with walking or stairs
Decreased stiffness and swelling
Improved mobility and function
Lower dependence on pain medications or injections
Delays the need for total knee replacement

Studies show that 60–85% of patients report lasting pain reduction after GAE, especially in early- to mid-stage arthritis.

Is Genicular Artery Embolization Right for Me?

You may be a good candidate if you:

Have knee osteoarthritis that causes daily pain or limits mobility
Tried injections, therapy, or medications without lasting relief
Are not ready for or cannot undergo total knee replacement
Want a non-surgical solution with less recovery time

Our team will evaluate your condition and imaging to see if GAE is appropriate for your situation.

REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT

RISKS & COMPLICATIONS

Risks and Complications

GAE is a safe and well-tolerated procedure, but as with any medical treatment, there are risks.

Common, mild side effects:

Bruising or soreness at the catheter site
Temporary knee stiffness or discomfort
Mild fatigue after the procedure

Rare complications include:

Non-target embolization (blockage of nearby tissue)
Knee numbness or tingling (usually temporary)
Allergic reaction to contrast dye
Infection at the access site (extremely rare)

We use state-of-the-art imaging to precisely guide the procedure and reduce risks.

FAQS

What is Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)?

GAE is a non-surgical procedure that treats knee pain from osteoarthritis by blocking abnormal blood vessels (genicular arteries) that contribute to chronic inflammation in the joint.

Who qualifies for GAE?

Ideal candidates have knee osteoarthritis, especially mild to moderate, and have not found relief from medications, injections, or physical therapy. It’s also suitable for people who can’t undergo knee surgery or wish to delay it.

Is GAE painful?

No. The procedure uses local anesthesia, and most patients report little to no discomfort. Mild soreness or fatigue may follow, but it typically resolves in a few days.

How long does the procedure take?

The procedure usually takes about 60–90 minutes. You’ll recover briefly in our center and then go home the same day.

When will I feel better?

Most patients experience pain relief within 1 to 4 weeks, with continued improvement for several months as inflammation decreases.

How long do the results last?

For many, the benefits of GAE last months to years. While it doesn’t reverse arthritis, it treats the inflammation and pain source, which can significantly improve quality of life.

Are there risks?

GAE is safe, with low complication rates. Possible risks include bruising, temporary knee discomfort, or rare issues like non-target embolization or contrast reactions.

Will insurance cover GAE?

Coverage is increasing, but it may vary by provider and diagnosis. Our staff will help verify your benefits and review any out-of-pocket costs before scheduling.

Please contact our office to schedule a consultation to see if GAE is right for you.

TESTIMONIALS

Jack Wood

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Marilyn Vogel

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January 24, 2022

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)