Genicular Artery Embolization – CHOICE Pain & Rehabilitation Center

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)

What Is Genicular Artery Embolization?

Genicular artery embolization (GAE) is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure designed to relieve chronic knee pain, especially in people with osteoarthritis. By targeting and reducing the abnormal blood flow in small arteries around the knee joint, GAE helps lower inflammation and pain without the need for a full knee replacement. The treatment is typically done on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home the same day.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)?

GAE is a non-surgical treatment where a small catheter is inserted into an artery (commonly via the thigh) and guided, under X-ray imaging, to the tiny blood vessels supplying the lining (synovium) of the knee. Tiny particles are then injected to partially block these arteries, reducing blood flow, inflammation, and consequently, pain.

Who is a good candidate for GAE?

This procedure is most appropriate for individuals who:

Suffer from knee osteoarthritis (OA) with persistent pain.
Have tried conservative treatments such as medication, physical therapy, or joint injections without sufficient relief.
Prefer to avoid or delay knee replacement surgery, or may not be suitable for it.

How is the GAE procedure performed?

During GAE, an interventional radiologist or pain specialist gives you mild sedation and numbs a small area for access. A very thin catheter is then inserted into an artery and steered toward the genicular (knee) arteries under live imaging. Once in place, tiny embolic particles (microspheres) are released, reducing the blood flow to the inflamed tissues around the knee. The procedure typically takes 1–2 hours.

What is recovery like, and what results can I expect?

Recovery: Most patients go home the same day.
Pain relief: Many people begin to experience reduced pain within 1–2 weeks as inflammation decreases.
Risks & side effects: Because the procedure blocks small blood vessels, some temporary side effects may occur, such as mild skin color changes (bruising or discoloration), tingling, or swelling at the site or around the knee.
Long-term effects: Studies have shown significant improvements in pain and function for many patients, with some maintaining benefit for a year or more.