Genicular Artery Embolization

(GAE)

Got Knee Pain?

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a debilitating disease characterized by pain, stiffness, and loss of function. KOA is the most common cause of chronic pain and physical activity limitation in adults. Traditional therapy includes physical therapy, NSAIDS, and steroid injections, when these therapies fail, surgery is often mentioned. Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a minimally invasive treatment to treat KOA with a high patient satisfaction rate.

What To Expect

Signs & Symptoms

Pain in the knee joint during or after movement
Joint stiffness, especially in the mornings or after periods of inactivity
Tenderness
Loss of flexibility
Grating sensation
Bone spurs
Swelling

Initial Consultation

During your initial consultation for Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE), our expert team will discuss your medical history and symptoms to determine if GAE is the right treatment for your knee pain. We will explain the procedure in detail, answer any questions you may have, and review pre-procedure instructions. Our goal is to ensure you feel informed and comfortable with your treatment plan, providing personalized care every step of the way. A self- reported questionnaire (WOMAC) will need to be completed by you and weightbearing knee radiographs will most likely be ordered.

Treatment Plan

A simple, less invasive method is used to reach and block the abnormal blood vessels in the knee. A special imaging test called an Arteriogram is done to look at the blood vessels in the affected limb using an artery in the thigh. Small tubes are then used to reach and check the abnormal knee arteries. If these arteries show extra blood flow (a "blush"), they are blocked using tiny beads, which helps to "prune" the problematic vessels. By stopping these problem vessels, it can reduce inflammation and stop new blood vessels from forming. This helps to break the cycle of inflammation, new vessel growth, and pain.

Post Treatment

Patients can go home 2-3 hours after the procedure. It's normal to see a rash or skin changes in the treated area, which usually go away within a month. There may also be increased pain for up to a month after the procedure due to the treatment itself. A nurse will call the next day to check in. Initial follow-up visit is scheduled 2-4 weeks after procedure, after that follow ups are as needed.

Arterial Post Procedure Instructions