Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)
Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a cutting-edge, minimally invasive procedure that targets the root cause of osteoarthritis pain and helps patients get back to moving comfortably.
What Is Knee Osteoarthritis?
Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a common condition caused by the breakdown of cartilage in the knee joint. As cartilage wears away, bones rub together, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. For many, even simple daily activities—walking, climbing stairs, standing for long periods—can become difficult.
Common symptoms include:
- Chronic knee pain or aching
- Swelling or stiffness
- Pain that worsens with activity
- Limited mobility and function
Why Treat It?
Osteoarthritis is a progressive condition, meaning symptoms often worsen over time. Many patients are told their only options are pain medications, injections, or eventually joint replacement surgery. But medications wear off, injections provide only temporary relief, and surgery involves major risks and long recovery.
GAE offers a less invasive alternative designed to provide lasting relief without major surgery.
What Is GAE?
Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure performed by an interventional radiologist. Using imaging guidance, a small catheter is inserted into the arteries that supply the knee joint. Tiny particles are released to block abnormal blood vessels that contribute to inflammation and pain.
Why patients choose GAE:
- Outpatient procedure — no hospital stay
- Quick recovery, usually within days
- Reduces pain and inflammation at the source
- Helps delay or avoid knee replacement surgery
How Does GAE Work?
Here’s what to expect:
- Consultation: We review your medical history and imaging to determine if GAE is right for you.
- Procedure: A small catheter is inserted (typically via the wrist or groin) and guided to the arteries around the knee.
- Treatment: Tiny particles are injected to reduce abnormal blood flow causing inflammation.
- Recovery: Most patients go home the same day and resume normal activities within a few days.
GAE vs. Other Options
| GAE | Injections/Medications | Knee Replacement | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hospital Stay | Outpatient | None | Inpatient stay |
| Recovery | Days | Minimal, but temporary relief | Months |
| Risk Level | Low | Low, but repetitive | Higher (major surgery) |
| Duration of Relief | Long-lasting | Short-term | Long-term, but invasive |
GAE provides a balance: lasting pain relief without the risks of surgery.
What to Expect
Before
We’ll conduct a thorough consultation and imaging review to confirm you’re a candidate for GAE.
During
The procedure takes about 1–2 hours under light sedation. Only a tiny incision is made, and most patients are comfortable throughout.
After
You’ll go home the same day. Mild soreness may occur but typically resolves quickly. Most patients feel noticeable pain relief within weeks, with continued improvement over several months.
Is GAE Right for You?
GAE may be a great option if you:
- Have knee pain from osteoarthritis that limits daily activities
- Have not found lasting relief from medications or injections
- Want to avoid or delay joint replacement surgery
- Prefer a minimally invasive approach with fast recovery