Embolization for Knee Pain (Genicular Artery Embolization)

Embolization for Knee Pain (Genicular Artery Embolization)

Minimally Invasive Treatment for Osteoarthritis Knee Pain

A Minimally Invasive Solution for Osteoarthritis

Chronic knee pain caused by osteoarthritis can make even simple daily activities difficult. For patients who are not ready for—or wish to avoid—knee replacement surgery, Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) offers an effective, non-surgical option.
This outpatient procedure targets inflammation within the knee joint to provide lasting pain relief and restore mobility.

Understanding Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common causes of chronic knee pain in adults. Over time, the protective cartilage that cushions the bones wears down, leading to stiffness, swelling, and reduced range of motion.
Factors such as age, past injury, repetitive stress, excess weight, and genetics can all contribute to OA.

Conservative treatments—including medications, physical therapy, and injections—may help some patients, but others continue to experience pain that limits their activity and quality of life.

What Is Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)?

GAE is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure that decreases abnormal blood flow and inflammation in the knee.
Using a tiny catheter inserted through a pinhole access point—typically in the wrist or groin—a vascular surgeon delivers microscopic beads into the genicular arteries, which supply the inflamed tissues around the knee.
By reducing this excessive blood flow, GAE calms inflammation and relieves pain.

Procedure highlights:

• Outpatient setting: No hospital stay required
• Comfortable experience: Local anesthesia or mild sedation
• Quick treatment: Typically 45–60 minutes
• Fast recovery: Most patients walk the same day and resume normal activities within 1–2 days

Benefits of Genicular Artery Embolization

Patients often experience meaningful improvements shortly after the procedure.
Benefits include:

• Significant and lasting pain relief
• Improved mobility and daily function
• No incisions, no implants, and no prolonged recovery
• Durable results—often lasting two years or more

Who May Be a Candidate for GAE

You may be a candidate for GAE if you:

• Have moderate to severe osteoarthritis causing persistent knee pain
• Have not found relief with physical therapy, medication, or injections
• Wish to delay or avoid knee replacement surgery
• Are in otherwise good vascular and overall health

If you’re unsure whether GAE is right for you, take our short candidate survey or schedule a consultation to learn more.

Why Choose Gulf Coast Surgeons

At Gulf Coast Surgeons, our experienced vascular surgeons use advanced imaging and minimally invasive techniques to deliver personalized care and superior outcomes.
We focus on getting you back to the activities you love—pain-free and confident in your movement.

Request a Consultation

If knee pain is limiting your lifestyle, it may be time to explore your options.
Call 239-344-7061 or request a consultation online to find out if Genicular Artery Embolization is the right solution for you.