GAE (Genicular Artery Embolization)

What Is Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)?

Genicular Artery Embolization is a minimally invasive image-guided procedure that reduces knee pain by targeting inflammation in the blood vessels surrounding the knee joint.

During GAE, a specialist:

• Accesses small arteries supplying the knee
• Identifies abnormal blood flow contributing to inflammation
• Uses tiny particles to block these vessels
• Reduces inflammation and pain over time

The procedure is performed through a small catheter and does not require open surgery or joint replacement.

How GAE Helps Relieve Knee Pain

In patients with knee osteoarthritis, increased blood flow to inflamed tissue worsens pain and swelling. GAE works by:

• Decreasing inflammation in the knee
• Reducing chronic pain
• Improving mobility and function
• Slowing progression of symptoms

Many patients experience meaningful pain relief within weeks of treatment.

Benefits of Genicular Artery Embolization

GAE offers several advantages compared to traditional knee surgery:

• Minimally invasive outpatient procedure
• No large incisions or implants
• Short recovery time
• Reduced reliance on pain medications
• Alternative for patients not ready for knee replacement

This makes GAE an appealing option for patients seeking long-term relief with fewer risks.

Who Is a Candidate for GAE?

You may be a candidate for Genicular Artery Embolization if you:

• Have chronic knee pain due to osteoarthritis
• Have not responded to physical therapy, injections, or medications
• Are not ready for or want to avoid knee replacement surgery
• Are seeking a minimally invasive pain management option

A consultation and imaging review are required to determine candidacy.

What to Expect During the GAE Procedure

• Procedure Time: Typically 1–2 hours
• Anesthesia: Local anesthesia with light sedation
• Recovery: Most patients go home the same day
• Downtime: Minimal; many resume normal activities within a few days

Your provider will closely monitor your progress following treatment.

GAE vs. Knee Replacement Surgery

Unlike knee replacement surgery, GAE:

• Preserves the natural knee joint
• Requires no implants or joint removal
• Has significantly less recovery time
• Can be repeated if necessary

GAE is not a replacement for surgery in all cases, but it is an excellent option for many patients seeking pain relief.

GAE (Genicular Artery Embolization)

What is GAE

A minimally invasive procedure that reduces knee pain from osteoarthritis by blocking tiny abnormal blood vessels around the knee.

Who is a Candidate

• Knee pain ≥ 3–6 months.
• Pain despite medications, therapy, injections.
• Arthritis confirmed by X-ray or MRI. Limits walking or daily activities.
• Not ready for or wishes to delay knee replacement.

Benefits

• English: 50–70% pain reduction.
• Improved walking and daily activities.
• Outpatient, no open surgery.
• Option to delay or avoid knee replacement.

What to expect

• Local anesthesia with sedation
• Tiny puncture in groin or ankle artery
• Catheter guided to knee vessels, particles injected
• Takes 1-2 hours, home same day
• Pain relief builds gradually

Aftercare

• Avoid heavy lifting for a few days
• Mild soreness or bruising is normal
• Follow up visit to track progress

GAE Treatment in Charlotte, NC

South Charlotte General & Vascular Surgery proudly offers Genicular Artery Embolization to patients throughout Charlotte and surrounding communities. Our vascular specialists use advanced imaging and proven techniques to deliver safe, effective outcomes.

Schedule a GAE Consultation Today

Find out if Genicular Artery Embolization is right for your knee pain.

Schedule your appointment: https://www.scgvs.com/schedule

Call us: 704-459-3028