Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) treatment
Knee osteoarthritis is a progressive joint condition that can cause chronic pain, stiffness, and limited mobility, making everyday activities increasingly difficult.
While treatments like physical therapy, medications, and injections help many people, some continue to struggle with persistent discomfort and loss of function.
Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) offers new hope. This minimally invasive procedure targets the tiny blood vessels that fuel inflammation in the knee, reducing pain and improving mobility for patients who haven’t found relief with conservative care.
At Texas Endovascular, our board-certified interventional radiologists have decades of experience performing advanced, image-guided treatments.
We combine leading-edge technology with a focus on comfort and safety, making us one of Texas’s most trusted providers of minimally invasive vascular and joint therapies.
Discover how GAE can help you achieve lasting symptom improvement and regain your mobility.
What is genicular artery embolization?
Genicular artery embolization is a non-surgical, image-guided procedure designed to relieve knee osteoarthritis.
Using a tiny catheter inserted through a small puncture in the wrist or groin, an interventional radiologist navigates to the genicular arteries—the blood vessels surrounding the knee joint.
Microscopic particles are then introduced to block abnormal blood flow that fuels inflammation and pain.
Because GAE is performed through a small puncture rather than a large incision, it typically requires only local anesthesia, causes minimal discomfort, and allows most patients to return home the same day.
Many experience a noticeable reduction in knee pain and improved mobility within weeks, without the need for open surgery or a long recovery.
How GAE Relieves Knee Osteoarthritis Pain
Knee osteoarthritis is now understood as a whole-joint disease, rather than simply “wear and tear.”
Increased blood flow to the lining of the knee (the synovium) can lead to chronic inflammation and pain.
By reducing that blood flow, GAE calms inflammation at its source, helping to decrease swelling, ease discomfort, and restore more natural movement.
The GAE Procedure Step by Step
Here’s what you can expect during genicular artery embolization:
- Access: A small catheter is inserted into a blood vessel in the wrist or groin.
- Guidance: Using advanced X-ray imaging, the interventional radiologist carefully guides the catheter to the genicular arteries.
- Embolization: Microscopic particles are delivered to block the abnormal blood vessels feeding the inflamed joint lining.
- Recovery: The catheter is removed, a small bandage is applied, and most patients go home the same day.
Benefits of GAE Over Surgery
Choosing GAE means choosing relief without the challenges of major surgery.
This innovative procedure offers several key advantages, enabling you to heal faster, stay active, and minimize the risks associated with traditional knee operations.
Here are some of the main benefits:
- Minimally invasive: No large incision, no stitches, and no general anesthesia.
- Quick recovery: Most people resume normal activities within a few days.
- Medication-free relief: GAE reduces or eliminates the need for long-term pain medications.
- Long-lasting results: Many patients report significant pain reduction and improved mobility for a year or more.
- Surgical alternative: Because GAE is minimally invasive, this treatment option helps patients avoid or delay knee replacement surgery and its associated longer recovery period.
Patient Experiences With GAE
Texas Endovascular patients frequently report dramatic improvements in pain levels and daily function.
Many notice relief within the first few weeks, with continued progress over several months.
Because GAE is performed on an outpatient basis and requires only local anesthesia, most people return to light activity the next day and to full activity within a couple of weeks.
Is GAE Right for You?
You are typically a good candidate for GAE if you:
- Have a confirmed diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis
- Experience moderate to severe knee pain that limits daily activities
- Have tried physical therapy, medications, or injections without lasting relief
- Are not a candidate for—or wish to avoid—knee replacement surgery
- Are in overall good health without bleeding disorders or severe kidney disease
Your Texas Endovascular physician will review your health history, imaging studies, and personal goals to determine if GAE is the best fit for your needs.
GAE at Texas Endovascular
At Texas Endovascular, you can expect:
- Board-certified interventional radiologists with extensive experience in knee embolization
- Advanced imaging technology for maximum precision and safety
- A compassionate care team focused on your comfort and long-term results
- Multiple convenient locations across Greater Houston and the DFW area
If knee osteoarthritis pain is holding you back, explore your options for alternatives to GAE or schedule a consultation to see whether GAE is right for you.
