Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)

A Minimally Invasive Treatment for Knee Pain from Osteoarthritis

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure designed to reduce chronic knee pain caused by osteoarthritis.

GAE works by targeting abnormal blood flow and inflammation around the knee joint—key drivers of pain and swelling—without surgery or joint replacement.

This outpatient procedure is performed through a tiny catheter and does not require incisions, implants, or general anesthesia.

  • In patients with knee osteoarthritis, inflamed tissue around the joint develops abnormally increased blood supply, which perpetuates pain and swelling.

    During GAE:

    • A small catheter is inserted through an artery (usually in the wrist or groin)

    • Advanced imaging maps the tiny genicular arteries supplying inflamed tissue

    • Microscopic particles are delivered to selectively reduce excess blood flow

    • Inflammation decreases, leading to pain relief and improved function

    Healthy knee structures remain unaffected.

  • You may be a good candidate for GAE if you:

    • Have moderate to severe knee pain from osteoarthritis

    • Have tried conservative treatments (PT, injections, medications) with limited relief

    • Want to delay or avoid knee replacement surgery

    • Are not a surgical candidate due to age or medical conditions

    GAE is not a replacement for emergency care or acute injuries, and candidacy is determined through imaging and clinical evaluation.

    • Minimally invasive, no surgery

    • Outpatient procedure

    • No general anesthesia

    • Little to no downtime

    • Preserves future treatment options

    • Can be performed on one or both knees

    Most patients return home the same day and resume normal activities within days.

  • Before the procedure

    • Detailed consultation and imaging review

    • Review of prior treatments and medical history

    During the procedure

    • Performed under local anesthesia with light sedation

    • Typically lasts 60–90 minutes

    After the procedure

    • Mild soreness or fatigue for a few days

    • Gradual improvement in pain over weeks

    • Follow-up visits to assess progress and outcomes

How Is GAE Different From Injections or Surgery?

Treatment Invasiveness Longevity Recovery
Steroid or gel injections Low Temporary Same day
Arthroscopy Moderate Variable Weeks
Knee replacement High Long-term Months
GAE Minimally invasive Durable relief for many patients Days

Why Choose Mission Pain Treatment Center?

At Mission Pain Treatment Center, GAE is performed by physicians with deep expertise in:

Image-guided interventions

Vascular-based pain therapies

Comprehensive non-surgical pain management

Our approach is precision-based, patient-centered, and focused on long-term outcomes, not just short-term relief.

If knee pain is limiting your mobility, sleep, or quality of life, GAE may be an option.

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