Geniculate Artery Embolization

What is Geniculate Artery Embolization (GAE)?

Geniculate Artery Embolization is an advanced interventional radiology procedure designed to treat chronic knee pain caused by osteoarthritis. Instead of replacing or surgically altering the joint, GAE targets the small arteries (called geniculate arteries) that supply the inflamed lining of the knee.

By carefully inserting a microcatheter through a tiny incision in the groin or wrist, your provider navigates to the geniculate arteries using real-time X-ray guidance. Once in position, microscopic particles are injected to block abnormal blood flow to the inflamed tissue. This decreases inflammation, reduces pain, and improves overall knee function — all without the need for open surgery.

Who is a candidate for GAE?

You may be a good candidate for GAE if you:

• Have chronic knee pain due to osteoarthritis
• Have not achieved relief from physical therapy, steroid injections, or oral medications
• Wish to avoid or postpone total knee replacement surgery
• Are not a good surgical candidate due to age, health conditions, or personal preference

Before recommending GAE, your specialist performs a comprehensive evaluation, which may include X-rays, MRI scans, or diagnostic angiography to confirm inflammation and rule out other potential causes of knee pain.

What are the benefits of GAE?

Patients who undergo Geniculate Artery Embolization often experience:

• Noticeable pain reduction within days to weeks
• Improved mobility and walking tolerance
• No general anesthesia or hospital stay
• Minimal recovery time
• Long-lasting results (often 6–24 months or longer)

Because GAE preserves the natural structure of your knee, it can also delay or eliminate the need for joint replacement surgery.

What happens during and after the procedure?

GAE is performed under local anesthesia and mild sedation. Your interventional specialist makes a small puncture in the skin to insert a catheter and uses imaging guidance to deliver the embolization particles precisely where needed. The entire procedure typically takes one to two hours, and patients are usually able to return home the same day.

After GAE, most patients experience mild soreness for a few days but can typically resume normal activities within a week. Your care team provides post-procedure instructions and follow-up visits to monitor your recovery and pain relief.

If chronic knee pain has limited your mobility or quality of life, GAE may offer the relief you’ve been seeking. Call Vascular & Interventional Associates or book an appointment online to find out if you’re a candidate for this minimally invasive solution.