Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)
A Minimally Invasive Treatment for Knee Osteoarthritis Pain. Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is an innovative, minimally invasive procedure designed to reduce chronic knee pain caused by osteoarthritis. By targeting abnormal blood vessels that contribute to inflammation within the knee joint, GAE helps relieve pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life without the need for major surgery.
Our interventional radiology specialists offer advanced Genicular Artery Embolization using state-of-the-art imaging guidance, providing an effective treatment option for patients seeking alternatives to knee replacement surgery or long-term pain medication.
What is Knee Osteoarthritis?
Knee osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition in which the protective cartilage within the knee gradually wears down. This can lead to inflammation, pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility.
It is one of the most common causes of chronic knee pain, particularly in older adults, athletes, and individuals with previous knee injuries.
Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis
Common symptoms include:
- Chronic knee pain
- Joint stiffness, especially in the morning
- Swelling around the knee
- Reduced range of motion
- Difficulty walking or climbing stairs
- Knee tenderness
- Pain during physical activity
- Joint instability
- Reduced mobility and function
Symptoms often worsen over time if left untreated.
What is Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)?
Genicular Artery Embolization is a minimally invasive image-guided procedure that reduces inflammation within the knee by blocking tiny abnormal blood vessels that contribute to chronic pain and inflammation.
The treatment targets the genicular arteries, which supply blood to the tissues surrounding the knee joint. By reducing abnormal blood flow, inflammation decreases, resulting in significant pain relief.
Who is a Candidate for GAE?
GAE may be suitable for patients who:
- Have symptomatic knee osteoarthritis
- Experience chronic knee pain despite conservative treatment
- Have not achieved adequate relief from medications or injections
- Want to delay or avoid knee replacement surgery
- Are not ideal surgical candidates
- Seek a minimally invasive treatment option
A detailed clinical assessment and imaging evaluation help determine whether GAE is appropriate.
How is GAE Performed?
The procedure typically takes one to two hours and is usually performed on an outpatient basis.
Procedure Steps
Minimally invasive · 1–2 hours
- Local anesthesia is administered.
- A small catheter is inserted through an artery in the wrist or groin.
- Using advanced imaging guidance, the catheter is directed to the genicular arteries around the knee.
- Tiny embolic particles are injected into selected abnormal blood vessels.
- Blood flow associated with inflammation is reduced.
- The catheter is removed, and the procedure is completed.
Benefits of Genicular Artery Embolization
Recovery After GAE
Most patients return home the same day. Recovery is generally quick, and patients may experience:
- Mild soreness at the catheter insertion site
- Temporary knee discomfort
- Gradual improvement in symptoms over several weeks
Many individuals can resume normal daily activities within a few days following treatment.
Expected Results
Patients often experience:
- Significant reduction in knee pain
- Improved walking ability
- Better participation in daily activities
- Increased joint flexibility
- Enhanced overall quality of life
Symptom improvement may continue for several months as inflammation decreases.
Advantages of GAE Over Traditional Treatments
Compared with surgical options, GAE offers several benefits:
Genicular Artery Embolization
Minimally Invasive
- Minimally invasive
- No joint replacement
- Outpatient treatment
- Faster recovery
- Minimal scarring
- Lower procedural risk
Knee Replacement Surgery
Major Surgical Procedure
- Major surgical procedure
- Artificial joint implantation
- Hospital stay required
- Longer rehabilitation
- Surgical incision
- Higher surgical risk
GAE can be an excellent option for appropriately selected patients seeking pain relief without surgery.
Why Choose Our GAE Program?
We provide advanced interventional pain management solutions using the latest embolization techniques and imaging technologies.
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Dr. Tejendra Ramani
Consultant Interventional Radiologist
Vascular · Neuro ·
Image-Guided Interventions
MD (Gold Medalist) Neuro & Vascular Interventional Specialist NIMHANS-trained Neuro Intervention, PhD Scholar
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