What Is Genicular Artery Embolization?
Genicular Artery Embolization, commonly referred to as GAE, is an image-guided, minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic knee pain associated with osteoarthritis. It is performed by an interventional radiologist — a physician who uses real-time imaging to guide small catheters through blood vessels — rather than an orthopedic surgeon.
The procedure targets the genicular arteries, which are small blood vessels that supply the knee joint. In patients with knee osteoarthritis, abnormal new blood vessel growth (a process called neovascularization) occurs in the inflamed joint lining. These vessels are associated with pain signaling. GAE works by delivering tiny particles through the catheter to reduce blood flow to these abnormal vessels, which in turn reduces inflammation and pain in the joint.
What Happens During a GAE Procedure
- Access is gained through a small puncture, typically at the wrist or groin
- A thin catheter is guided under X-ray imaging to the genicular arteries
- Tiny embolic particles are delivered to the targeted vessels
- The procedure is performed under local anesthesia with mild sedation
- Most procedures are completed in under an hour
- Patients are discharged the same day
Who Is a Candidate for GAE?
GAE is generally considered for adult patients with knee pain caused by mild to moderate osteoarthritis who have not found adequate relief from conservative measures such as physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medication, or injections. It may also be appropriate for patients who are not surgical candidates due to age or health status, or those who prefer to delay or avoid knee replacement surgery.
What to Expect After the Procedure
Recovery from GAE is considerably shorter than from surgical alternatives. Most patients can return to light activity within a day or two. Pain relief is typically gradual, with many patients reporting meaningful improvement over several weeks as inflammation subsides. Individual results depend on the severity of the underlying condition and other patient-specific factors.
GAE at MinVasive Medical in Paramus, NJ
MinVasive Medical's interventional radiology team performs GAE for patients throughout New Jersey and Bergen County. If you have knee osteoarthritis pain that has not responded to conservative treatment, a consultation will determine whether GAE is an appropriate option for your situation.
