If you’re struggling with knee pain from osteoarthritis but aren’t ready for—or want to delay or avoid—a total knee replacement, Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) may be an option. This minimally invasive procedure may provide meaningful pain relief without the need for surgery, long recovery times, or physical therapy.

What is Genicular Artery Embolization?

GAE is an image-guided, non-surgical procedure that targets the tiny blood vessels (genicular arteries) supplying the knee joint. By reducing excessive blood flow to inflamed areas, GAE helps decrease pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis or other degenerative knee conditions.

Who Can Benefit from GAE?

GAE may be appropriate for patients who:

• Experience significant knee pain due to osteoarthritis but are not yet candidates for total knee replacement.
• Have multiple medical conditions (comorbidities) that make knee surgery too risky.
• Want to delay or avoid knee replacement surgery while still improving their mobility and quality of life.

Why Choose GAE?

• Non-Surgical & Minimally Invasive – No incisions, general anesthesia, or hospital stay required.
• Short Recovery Time – Most patients resume normal activities within days.
• No Physical Therapy Needed – Unlike knee replacement surgery, no extensive rehabilitation is required.
• Proven Pain Relief – Many patients experience significant pain reduction lasting around 18 months.
• Repeatable Procedure – If pain returns over time, GAE can be performed again for continued relief.
• Preserves Future Treatment Options – Undergoing GAE does not prevent you from having a knee replacement later if needed.
• Covered by Insurance – Coverage varies by insurance plan. Our team can help determine your benefits and authorization requirements.

What to Expect

GAE is performed by Dr. Deepak Sudheendra (Dr. Sudi), a nationally recognized, board-certified vascular and interventional radiologist with extensive experience in minimally invasive, image-guided treatments. Using advanced imaging techniques, Dr. Sudi guides a small catheter through an artery in the leg to the arteries around the knee. Tiny particles are then delivered to reduce the abnormal blood flow associated with inflammation and pain. The procedure is typically completed within one to two hours, and most patients return home the same day.

Is GAE Right for You?

If you’re looking for a non-surgical solution to knee pain, GAE may be a viable option. Schedule a consultation with a specialist to determine if this procedure is suitable for your condition and medical history.

Future Directions

Due to the highly successful results of GAE for knee pain, this technique is now being explored for other chronic pain conditions. Interventional radiologists are beginning to use embolization for conditions such as frozen shoulder and plantar fasciitis, offering new hope for patients seeking non-surgical pain relief.

Take the Next Step

Learn more about how Genicular Artery Embolization can help you regain mobility and relieve pain without major surgery. Contact us today to schedule an evaluation and explore your treatment options!