Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)

GAE (genicular artery embolization) is a minimally invasive knee procedure that reduces knee pain from osteoarthritis (OA). GAE is an alternative to knee replacement.

• Arthritis pain is driven in part by inflamed blood vessels in the knee lining.
• During GAE, we guide a catheter through a pinhole in the skin to the geniculate arteries (the knee's small arteries) and release microspheres to reduce excess blood flow and inflammation.
• This helps calm the inflammation pain signals and can improve function.

Learn more about how GAE works here.

GAE offers longer-term relief by treating the blood supply that causes inflammation, whereas injections provide only temporary relief.

You may be a candidate if you:

• Have knee pain affecting daily activities
• Have tried medications, injections, or physical therapy with limited relief
• Want to delay or avoid knee replacement, or are not a surgical candidate

We'll review your history, imaging, and goals to confirm if you're a good fit.

• Minimally invasive (pinhole access, no general anesthesia)
• Outpatient procedure with same-day return home
• Pain relief may begin within days to weeks, with continued improvement over months
• Can be repeated if needed; preserves future surgical options
• An alternative to knee replacement surgery

All procedures have risks; fortunately the risks for GAE are minimal. Possible (usually uncommon) risks include: temporary skin bruising, or soreness at the access site; temporary skin color changes around the knee, or bleeding at the access site (rare). Your team will take careful steps to minimize risks and will monitor you closely.

• Conservative care: Oral anti-inflammatory medications such as Advil; Physical Therapy; joint injections -- often first-line treatments
• GAE: For persistent pain despite conservative care; a non-surgical alternative to knee replacement surgery
• Surgery (partial/total knee replacement): Effective for advanced Osteoarthritis but involves general anesthesia; longer recovery; infection risk; and sometimes short hospital stay.

• Same-day walking is typical; light activity the first 24-48 hours
• Expect mild soreness for a few days; use approved pain meds/ice
• Most return to normal routines in 1-3 days; exercise ramps up gradually
• Improvements often build over weeks to months

Most appropriate patients report meaningful pain relief and better function. Results vary by arthritis severity, activity level, and individual healing. We track your progress and adjust your care plan as needed.

Coverage varies by plan and medical necessity. Our team will check benefits, obtain authorizations, and review any out-of-pocket costs with you before scheduling.

• Consultation visit: Bring prior imaging reports (if available) and medication list
• Personalized plan: We'll confirm candidacy and discuss expectations
• Scheduling: Most patients can be scheduled within 1-3 weeks after approval

If you've been diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis and are experiencing ongoing pain -- especially if surgery isn't an option for you or you prefer to avoid it -- you may be a candidate for our GAE procedure. Our specialists will review your case and imaging to determine if Genicular Artery Embolization is right for you. Schedule a consultative appointment here.

Most patients experience relief for 12 months or more, depending on the severity of their osteoarthritis. Some see lasting results for years from the GAE procedure.

1. Check-in and Prep: You'll change into a gown. We review consent and start an IV.
2. Comfort meds: Relaxing medicine and local numbing; many patients nap lightly.
3. Imaging-guided treatment: Through a groin access, we navigate to the knee arteries and place microspheres - small absorbable particles that block blood flow.
4. Go home the same day: A small bandage; no stitches.

• Medications: We'll review blood thinners and allergies.
• Food/Drink: Follow our fasting instructions if sedation is planned.
• Ride home: Arrange a driver. Wear loose pants and comfortable shoes.

Patients typically feel only mild discomfort during the procedure, which is performed under local anesthesia and light sedation. You'll be awake but relaxed, and most patients report minimal discomfort during or after the procedure.

The GAE procedure is covered by most insurers. Our competent office staff will help to verify coverage and explain any costs up front before scheduling your GAE procedure.

Preferred Vascular Group offers GAE at multiple convenient locations in both Atlanta, Georgia and in Northeast Ohio. Our board-certified physicians and specialists provide expert care close to home.

Most patients resume normal activities within 1-2 days, although strenuous exercise should be avoided for about a week.