Understanding Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)

By Jacob T. DePolo, M.D.

If you suffer from chronic knee pain caused by osteoarthritis, you’re not alone. Millions of Americans experience daily discomfort that can make walking, exercising, climbing stairs and enjoying favorite activities increasingly difficult.

Many patients begin with conservative treatments such as medications, physical therapy, activity modification or injections. While these approaches can provide relief, they don’t always address the underlying inflammation contributing to pain.

As an interventional radiologist specializing in minimally invasive, image-guided procedures, I frequently meet patients who are searching for alternatives to surgery. Many are surprised to learn that treatment options exist beyond medication and knee replacement. One of the most promising advances is Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE), a minimally invasive outpatient procedure designed to target inflammation and reduce knee pain.

What Is Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)?

Genicular Artery Embolization, or GAE, is a minimally invasive treatment used to help reduce pain associated with knee osteoarthritis.

Research has shown that chronic inflammation plays a significant role in osteoarthritis-related knee pain. As osteoarthritis progresses, abnormal blood vessels can develop around the knee joint, contributing to ongoing inflammation, swelling, and discomfort.

GAE works by targeting these abnormal blood vessels. By reducing blood flow to the inflamed areas, the procedure can help decrease inflammation and alleviate pain while preserving the normal structures of the knee.

How Does the Procedure Work?

GAE is performed in an outpatient setting using advanced imaging guidance.

During the procedure, a small catheter is inserted through a tiny puncture in an artery, typically in the wrist or groin. Using real-time imaging, the catheter is carefully guided to the arteries supplying the inflamed tissues around the knee.

Once the targeted vessels are identified, microscopic embolic particles are delivered to reduce blood flow to the areas contributing to inflammation. The catheter is then removed and a small bandage is applied.

Because the procedure requires no large incisions, most patients return home the same day and can resume normal activities within a few days.

Who May Be a Candidate for GAE?

GAE may be an option for individuals who:

• Have knee pain caused by osteoarthritis
• Continue to experience symptoms despite conservative treatment
• Want to delay or avoid knee replacement surgery
• Are not ideal candidates for surgery
• Are seeking a minimally invasive treatment with minimal downtime

The best way to determine candidacy is through a consultation and imaging evaluation with an interventional radiologist.

Benefits of Genicular Artery Embolization

Patients considering GAE are often interested in how it compares to more invasive treatment options.

Potential benefits include:

• Minimally invasive treatment
• Outpatient procedure
• No surgical incision
• Reduced recovery time
• Improvement in knee pain
• Increased mobility and function
• Return to normal activities more quickly than traditional surgery

While individual results vary, many patients report meaningful improvements in pain and quality of life following treatment.

When Is It Time to Explore Additional Options?

Many people live with knee pain for years before learning about all of the available treatment options. If osteoarthritis is preventing you from staying active, enjoying hobbies, exercising, traveling or simply moving comfortably throughout the day, it may be time to consider alternatives.

The good news is that surgery is no longer the only option. Advances in interventional radiology have created innovative treatments that address pain at its source while minimizing recovery time.

An Innovative Knee Pain Treatment Available in East Tennessee

At Vista Interventional Care Center, we are committed to providing advanced, minimally invasive treatment options for patients throughout East Tennessee.

Genicular Artery Embolization represents an exciting advancement in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis. By targeting the inflammation contributing to chronic pain, GAE offers a non-surgical option that may help patients improve mobility and regain quality of life.

If knee pain is slowing you down, a consultation can help determine whether Genicular Artery Embolization may be right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions About GAE

Is GAE painful?

Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure. Local anesthesia and medications are used to maximize comfort.

How long does recovery take?

Many patients return to normal daily activities within several days, although recovery times vary.

Is GAE an alternative to knee replacement?

For some patients, GAE may help delay or avoid knee replacement surgery. However, candidacy depends on the severity of arthritis and individual treatment goals.

How do I know if I’m a candidate?

A consultation with an interventional radiologist can help determine whether GAE is appropriate based on your symptoms, imaging findings, and medical history.

Is GAE performed in a hospital?

GAE is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, allowing patients to return home the same day.