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Say Goodbye to Knee Pain with Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)

A Minimally Invasive Option for Osteoarthritis of the Knee

If knee pain from osteoarthritis is keeping you from living life the way you want, you’re not alone. 1 in 3 Americans over 60 struggle with osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee—and nearly half of them experience daily, bothersome pain.

For many people, knee replacement surgery feels too invasive, and managing pain long-term with medication just isn’t sustainable. Fortunately, there’s another option.

genicular artery embolization

What is Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)?

Genicular Artery Embolization is a minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment that targets the inflammation causing knee pain due to osteoarthritis.

Recent studies show that inflammation of the synovium (the lining of your knee joint) plays a major role in ongoing knee pain. As cartilage breaks down, it releases debris that triggers inflammation—leading to stiffness, swelling, and discomfort.

GAE works by blocking the tiny blood vessels that feed this inflammation, reducing blood flow and allowing the knee to heal naturally.

  • No surgery
  • No hospital stay
  • Minimal downtime
  • Long-lasting relief—often up to 4 years

In fact, a 2021 study showed that patients’ average pain scores dropped from 8 out of 10 to 3 out of 10 within the first week after genicular artery embolization.¹

Take our quick quiz to see if you’re a candidate »

Call (518) 562-7557 to schedule a consult

Benefits of GAE

  • Avoid or delay knee replacement surgery
  • More effective and longer-lasting than joint injections
  • Resume most normal activities the next day
  • No scars, stitches, or general anesthesia
  • Keeps future surgical options open if needed

How the Procedure Works

Genicular artery embolization is performed by a vascular surgeon in our comfortable outpatient center.

  1. A small catheter is inserted through an artery foot or groin.
  2. Using live imaging, your doctor guides the catheter to the genicular artery, which supplies the inflamed area of the knee.
  3. Tiny particles are injected to reduce abnormal blood flow and inflammation.

The procedure typically takes under an hour, and most patients return home the same day—often noticing pain relief within days.

Am I a Candidate?

GAE may be right for you if you:

  • Are 40–80 years old
  • Have moderate to severe knee pain
  • Have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis (without major bone deformity)
  • Have tried medications, therapy, or injections without success
  • Experience pain when going up or down stairs

You may not be a candidate if you:

  • Are a current or former smoker
  • Have advanced arthritis on imaging
  • Have a knee infection or malignancy
  • Are already a good candidate for knee replacement surgery

Frequently Asked Questions About Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)

Many patients experience meaningful pain relief for up to four years or longer after GAE. Results can vary depending on the severity of osteoarthritis and overall joint health, but the goal is to provide long-lasting relief that helps you stay active and delay or avoid surgery.

Coverage for GAE varies by provider and plan. While some insurance companies are beginning to cover the procedure, others may still consider it investigational. Our team will work with you to verify your benefits and discuss all costs upfront, so there are no surprises.

Some patients notice improvement within a few days, while others experience gradual relief over several weeks as inflammation decreases. Most people continue to see improvement over time as the knee heals.

Yes, in some cases, GAE can be repeated if symptoms return. Your physician will evaluate your condition and imaging to determine if a repeat procedure is appropriate or if another treatment option would be more beneficial.

GAE is considered a safe, minimally invasive procedure, but like any medical treatment, it carries some risks. These may include:

  • Temporary skin discoloration near the knee
  • Mild soreness or bruising at the access site
  • Rare risk of non-target embolization

Serious complications are uncommon, especially when performed by experienced, image-guided specialists.

While injections may provide temporary relief, GAE targets the underlying inflammation that drives knee pain. Many patients find that GAE offers longer-lasting results without the need for repeated treatments every few months.

GAE does not cure osteoarthritis or restore cartilage, it can significantly slow or halt the progression of cartilage degeneration, as well as reduce pain and inflammation, improving mobility and quality of life. For many patients, this means returning to activities they’ve had to give up.

Yes. One of the key benefits of GAE is that it does not limit future treatment options. If you decide to pursue knee replacement later, GAE will not interfere with surgery.

GAE is performed by a vascular or interventional specialist trained in image-guided, minimally invasive procedures. At Champlain Valley Vascular, your procedure is performed by a physician with advanced expertise in embolization techniques.

If knee pain is impacting your daily activities, limiting movement, or not improving with medications, physical therapy, or injections, it may be time to explore additional options like GAE. A consultation and imaging review can help determine if you’re a good candidate.

Yes—GAE is specifically designed for people who:

  • Want to avoid or delay knee replacement
  • Are not ready for surgery
  • Or are not ideal surgical candidates

It provides a non-surgical path to meaningful pain relief.

If GAE does not provide the level of relief you’re hoping for, your care team will help guide you toward other options, including surgical solutions if appropriate. The procedure is part of a continuum of care, not a one-way decision.

Take our 2-minute quiz to find out if GAE is right for you »

Why Choose Champlain Valley Vascular for Genicular Artery Embolization?

At Champlain Valley Vascular, our fellowship-trained vascular surgeon specializes in image-guided procedures that relieve pain and restore function—without the risks of surgery.

We offer:

  • A comfortable outpatient environment
  • Highly skilled physicians with extensive GAE experience
  • Personalized care and collaboration with your referring doctor
  • Convenient scheduling and local expertise in advanced vascular treatments

We’re here to help you get back to walking, hiking, and living without constant knee pain.

Download WOMAC Knee Osteoarthritis Questionnaire

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Take the First Step Toward Relief With Genicular Artery Embolization

Whether you’re tired of injections, not ready for surgery, or just looking for lasting relief, GAE may be the solution. Call us at (518) 562-7557 to speak to a team member or learn more about our minimally invasive solution!

¹ Reference: Society of Interventional Radiology, 2021.

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