If chronic knee pain is slowing you down—and you’ve been told a knee replacement may be in your future—there’s good news.
Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure offering relief for people with knee osteoarthritis who are looking to stay active and delay joint replacement, or who may not be quite ready for surgery.
GAE works by targeting inflammation at the source—not by altering the joint, but by quietly reducing blood flow to the overactive vessels that fuel swelling and stiffness inside the knee. It’s done through a tiny pinhole, takes less than two hours, and most patients are back on their feet the next day.
Relief Without Joint Replacement
What sets GAE apart is its low impact and quick recovery. There’s:
- No incision
- No stitches
- No general anesthesia
- No joint alteration
Using advanced imaging, a trained interventional radiologist threads a microcatheter through a tiny opening in the wrist or groin to reach the genicular arteries—the vessels supplying the inflamed lining of the knee. Once there, microscopic particles are used to reduce excess blood flow, allowing inflammation to subside.
Most patients begin noticing improvement within 2–4 weeks. Many report meaningful pain relief, reduced stiffness, and easier mobility that lasts for 6–12 months or more.
A Gentle Option with Real Results
For people living with osteoarthritis, GAE offers another path forward—especially for those who are:
- Not ready for knee replacement
- Managing other health concerns that make recovery from joint replacement challenging
- Looking for pain relief without relying on injections or daily medications
- Hoping to maintain mobility and quality of life with minimal disruption
Because GAE doesn’t change the structure of the joint, patients can still choose knee replacement down the road if and when the time is right. In that way, it works alongside surgical care—not in place of it.
Who Is a Good Candidate for GAE?
GAE may be a good fit for adults with knee pain due to osteoarthritis who:
- Have already tried physical therapy, injections, or medications
- Are seeking a nonsurgical option to manage symptoms
- Want to reduce reliance on anti-inflammatory drugs
- Prefer a low-risk procedure with a short recovery time
If you’ve been told your arthritis is “bone on bone,” or you’ve simply been living with daily limitations, GAE may offer the breathing room you need to keep going—without committing to joint replacement.
Get Moving Again—On Your Terms
Living with knee pain shouldn’t mean putting your life on hold. Genicular Artery Embolization is a precise, image-guided procedure designed to reduce pain caused by inflammation and give you back the freedom to move, walk, and enjoy the things that make life yours.
If you’re exploring options to manage knee pain, GAE might be the solution you didn’t know existed. Ask your physician or speak with one of our interventional radiologists to see if you’re a candidate.