Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)

Targeted Relief For Knee Osteoarthritis

At Medical Center Radiologists, our team is proud to offer Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) for patients experiencing chronic knee pain caused by osteoarthritis. This minimally invasive procedure is designed to provide long-term relief and may be an ideal alternative for individuals who are unable to undergo knee replacement surgery. By targeting inflammation within the knee, GAE can help improve comfort, mobility and overall quality of life.

What is Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)?

Genicular Artery Embolization is a non-surgical procedure that may help reduce chronic knee pain and improve mobility for patients living with knee osteoarthritis. Using advanced image-guided technology, your interventional radiologist targets blood vessels associated with inflammation in the knee to help decrease pain and discomfort. GAE may be an ideal option for those who continue to experience knee pain despite medications, injections or physical therapy. At Medical Center Radiologists, our goal is to help reduce symptoms so you can return to daily activities with improved comfort and function.

Recovery After Genicular Artery Embolization

Recovery after GAE is typically quick and easy, as many patients are able to go home the same day and resume light daily activities within 24 to 48 hours. Some mild soreness, bruising or fatigue may occur at the treatment site, but these effects are usually temporary and resolve within a few days. Patients are generally advised to avoid strenuous activity for a short period, as directed by one of our interventional radiologists. Improvement in knee pain is often gradual, with symptoms continuing to improve over several weeks as inflammation decreases.

Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis is a progressive condition that occurs when the cartilage in the knee joint gradually wears down over time. As it develops, symptoms often become more noticeable and may begin to impact daily movement and comfort. Understanding these symptoms can help determine when Genicular Artery Embolization treatment may be considered as part of a care plan for chronic knee pain. Symptoms of knee osteoarthritis include:

  • Knee pain that worsens with activity such as walking or standing
  • Swelling or inflammation around the knee
  • Reduced range of motion or difficulty bending/straightening
  • Grinding, clicking or popping with movement
  • Feeling that the knee may give out during physical activity
  • Gradual worsening of symptoms over time
Patient holding knee representing genicular artery embolization for chronic knee pain treatment from medical center radiologists in hampton roads, va.

When To Consider GAE Treatment

Patients with chronic knee pain from osteoarthritis may find Genicular Artery Embolization helpful, especially when other treatments have not provided lasting relief. It is recommended for individuals looking for a minimally invasive, non-surgical option to help manage chronic symptoms and improve their overall quality of life. If you are experiencing the following symptoms, our team of interventional radiologists recommends GAE treatment:

  • Persistent knee pain not improved with medications, PT or injections
  • Knee osteoarthritis affecting daily activities and mobility
  • Limited relief from conservative or non-surgical treatments
  • Not ideal candidates for knee replacement surgery
  • Desire to avoid or delay knee replacement
  • Chronic inflammation causing ongoing pain and stiffness
  • Reduced quality of life due to long-term knee discomfort

Frequently Asked Questions About GAE

Genicular Artery Embolization is a trusted option that may help relieve chronic knee pain due to osteoarthritis. Our patients typically have questions about how the procedure works, what recovery looks like and whether it may be the right choice for their condition. Below are some frequently asked questions and answers designed to provide clear, helpful information to guide your decision-making process.

Genicular Artery Embolization may be the right choice for patients with chronic knee osteoarthritis who continue to experience pain and limited mobility despite trying conservative treatments.

Most patients experience minimal discomfort during Genicular Artery Embolization. It is performed using local anesthesia, and light sedation may be used to help ensure comfort throughout the treatment.

The procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the treatment area.

Our team recommends that patients avoid intense or strenuous physical activity once they are done with GAE treatment, but most normal daily activities can resume quickly after.

GAE is designed to provide meaningful and long-lasting relief from knee pain caused by osteoarthritis. While individual results vary based on severity of osteoarthritis and overall joint health, GAE can help significantly delay the need for more invasive treatments, giving you more time to stay active and do what you love.

Yes, Genicular Artery Embolization may be a minimally invasive alternative for patients who want to avoid or delay knee replacement surgery, especially when symptoms are not yet severe enough to require joint replacement.

Contact Us Today

If you are living with chronic knee pain and would like to learn more about Genicular Artery Embolization, contact Medical Center Radiologists today at (757) 388-3401 to request an appointment. Our team of experienced interventional radiologists is here to answer your questions, evaluate your symptoms and help determine if this non-surgical treatment is right for you.

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6275 E Virginia Beach Blvd, Suite 300, Norfolk, Virginia 23502

 (757) 466-0089