Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic, progressive condition that can significantly affect your quality of life. Over time, the pain and inflammation may become severe enough to require surgery. However, not all patients are ready—or ideal candidates—for surgical intervention.

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) offers a safe, effective, and non-surgical alternative for those seeking lasting pain relief without the risks of major surgery. Here’s why more patients are turning to GAE:

✅ Minimally Invasive

GAE is performed through a small catheter inserted into the blood vessels—no large incisions, joint removal, or general anesthesia required. This makes it a gentler, lower-risk option compared to surgery.

✅ Performed as an Outpatient Procedure

Most patients return home the same day. There’s no need for an overnight hospital stay, which means you can recover in the comfort of your own home.

✅ Quick Procedure with Fast Recovery

A typical GAE treatment takes just 45 to 90 minutes. Most patients resume normal activities within a few days—far sooner than with traditional surgery.

✅ Long-Lasting Pain Relief

Studies show that GAE can provide significant pain relief for several months, with some patients experiencing benefits lasting a year or more.

✅ Fewer Risks, Fewer Side Effects

As a non-surgical, image-guided procedure, GAE is less risky than joint replacement surgery and typically involves fewer side effects than long-term 

✅ Is GAE Right for You?

If you suffer from knee pain due to osteoarthritis and want to avoid or delay surgery, Genicular Artery Embolization may be a safe and effective option. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

How Does Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) Work?

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a minimally invasive procedure that targets inflammation in the knee caused by osteoarthritis. The goal is to reduce pain and swelling by blocking abnormal blood vessels that contribute to chronic inflammation.

Here’s what to expect:

Step 1: Local Anesthesia and Preparation

The procedure is done in an outpatient setting, meaning no hospital stay is required. You’ll be awake but relaxed, and the area where the catheter is inserted—usually in your upper thigh—will be numbed with local anesthesia.

Step 2: Guided Catheter Insertion

Using advanced imaging techniques (fluoroscopy/X-ray guidance), a specially trained interventional radiologist inserts a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into a blood vessel in your leg. The catheter is carefully navigated to the genicular arteries, which supply blood to the inflamed knee joint.

Step 3: Targeted Embolization

Once in place, the radiologist releases tiny particles (microspheres) through the catheter. These particles block the abnormal blood vessels that are fueling inflammation in the knee. This reduces blood flow to the inflamed areas—lowering pain, swelling, and stiffness.

Step 4: Recovery and Follow-Up

The entire procedure typically takes 45 to 90 minutes. After a brief recovery period, most patients go home the same day. Recovery time is minimal, with many patients resuming light activities within a few days.

What Makes This Procedure Unique?

Unlike surgery, GAE doesn’t involve cutting into the joint, removing tissue, or replacing bone. Instead, it works by addressing one of the root causes of osteoarthritis pain—inflammation—at the vascular level.

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