What Is Genicular Artery Embolization?

If you’re coping with persistent knee pain from osteoarthritis or still experiencing discomfort even after knee replacement surgery, genicular artery embolization (GAE) may offer another path toward relief.

GAE is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat chronic inflammation in the knee by targeting and blocking abnormal blood vessels that contribute to ongoing pain. These tiny vessels, which often develop as a response to cartilage breakdown, can make the joint more sensitive and swollen.

By reducing blood flow to these vessels, GAE helps calm inflammation without affecting the healthy structures in the knee.

While GAE is not commonly used as a stand-alone treatment, it can be an effective addition to other therapies, especially when options like viscosupplementation have not provided lasting results.

For many adults over 40, GAE becomes part of a personalized care plan that aims to manage pain, improve mobility, and delay or avoid more invasive procedures.

Why consider GAE as part of your treatment plan:

• It targets the root cause of inflammation by blocking pain-sensitive, abnormal blood vessels
• It’s minimally invasive with a short recovery time, allowing for a quick return to normal activities
• It’s effective even after a knee replacement, particularly for lingering or returning pain
• It can be combined with other treatments such as viscosupplementation or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy
• It preserves future options, including additional injections or surgical procedures if needed

If standard treatments, such as physical therapy, medications, or injections, haven’t provided sufficient relief, GAE may be the next step toward improved joint comfort and quality of life.

Why Blood Vessels Matter in Knee Osteoarthritis

In a healthy knee, bones glide smoothly thanks to protective cartilage and a small amount of joint fluid. Osteoarthritis breaks down the cartilage and triggers inflammation in the joint.

As part of the body’s response, tiny new blood vessels grow into the surrounding bone and tissues. These vessels often carry pain-sensitive nerves, which contribute to ongoing swelling and discomfort. GAE works by blocking these abnormal vessels, calming inflammation without removing or replacing the joint.

How Genicular Artery Embolization Works

A skilled doctor performs GAE.

• Local anesthesia is applied: You may feel a slight pinch as the doctor numbs the skin, similar to what you’d feel getting an IV placed. This takes place in the leg instead of the arm.
• No incisions are needed: The procedure is minimally invasive and designed to reduce discomfort.
• A contrast dye is injected: We use a medical dye that shows up on a live-motion X-ray (fluoroscopy) machine so that our doctors can clearly see abnormal arteries around the knee.
• Microscopic beads are used: A doctor will inject minuscule, sterile beads, about the width of a human hair, to block the abnormal blood vessels. The beads are permanent and stop the abnormal blood flow that irritates surrounding nerves.

You’ll remain awake but comfortable during the procedure. Most people walk out of the facility the same day.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Genicular Artery Embolization?

GAE isn’t meant to replace other treatments, but it can play a valuable role when combined with options like viscosupplementation. It is especially beneficial for those who still have knee pain after replacement surgery or who aren’t candidates for additional surgery.

Ideal candidates often include:

• Adults over 40 with moderate to severe knee osteoarthritis
• People who’ve tried NSAIDs, physical therapy, or joint injections without lasting relief
• Patients experiencing persistent pain even after knee replacement
• Individuals with localized knee pain and minimal joint deformity on X-rays

Your doctor will review imaging, your medical history, and your treatment goals to determine if GAE is right for you.

Benefits of GAE

Many people consider GAE because it offers a number of practical advantages, especially when used in coordination with other therapies:

• Minimally invasive: The procedure involves only a small puncture rather than a large incision
• Outpatient procedure: Go home the same day and return to normal activity in a day or two
• Fast pain relief: Many feel better within two weeks, with more noticeable relief at one month and maximum results by three months
• Lasting improvement: Studies show about 70% of patients experience at least a 50% reduction in pain, and relief can last up to four years
• Keeps future options open: GAE does not interfere with the possibility of future treatments or surgeries

Potential Risks and Considerations for Genicular Artery Embolization Therapy

Like any medical procedure, GAE carries some risks. Possible side effects include bruising at the puncture site, temporary numbness or tingling in the leg, infection, or failure to relieve pain.

Serious complications are rare when a qualified doctor performs the procedure. Your doctor will review your medications and medical history to minimize risk and decide whether you should temporarily stop blood thinners.

What to Expect During GAE Recovery

After the procedure, you’ll rest for a short time while the sedation wears off. You’ll be given a bandage over the groin puncture site. Most people are up and walking within hours. You may experience mild groin discomfort or bruising, but this typically resolves within a few days.

Doctors advise avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous activity for about a week. Pain relief usually begins around two weeks post‑procedure, becomes significant by one month and peaks at three months. Follow‑up visits are scheduled at one, three, six, twelve and twenty‑four months to monitor progress.

Comparing GAE to Other Knee Treatments

• Knee replacement surgery can be effective, but it requires a more extended and often painful recovery period.
• Viscosupplementation involves injecting a cushioning gel into the joint, providing relief that lasts 6 to 12 months.
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy utilizes your own blood components to aid in the healing of damaged tissue.
• A genicular nerve block temporarily numbs the nerves supplying the knee.

GAE differs by directly targeting the blood vessels fueling chronic inflammation. While it is not used as a stand-alone treatment, GAE can be part of a broader plan when combined with options like viscosupplementation or PRP.

If you’ve already had a knee replacement and continue to have pain, GAE may also help calm lingering inflammation and discomfort.

Preparing for the Procedure

To make sure your procedure goes smoothly, here’s how to prepare:

• Share a full list of your medications with your doctor, including over-the-counter supplements
• You may need to stop taking blood thinners before the procedure
• Arrange for someone to drive you home afterward
• Avoid eating or drinking for several hours before, based on your doctor’s instructions
• Wear comfortable clothing and plan to spend a few hours at the facility

Don’t hesitate to ask your medical team questions about recovery, restrictions, and when you can resume everyday activities, such as walking, driving, or light exercise.

Is Genicular Artery Embolization Therapy Right for You?

Choosing the right knee pain treatment depends on your goals, the severity of your condition, and how other therapies have worked for you.

If you’re looking for a non-surgical option that can work alongside treatments like viscosupplementation, or you’re still in pain after a knee replacement, GAE may be a smart next step. At Arthritis Knee Pain Centers, our team is here to help you find lasting relief and improve your quality of life.

Schedule a no-charge, no-obligation knee screening to see if GAE is the right fit for your needs.