Don’t Let Knee Pain Control Your Life: How Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) Can Help

Don’t Let Knee Pain Control Your Life: How Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) Can Help

Knee pain affects millions of Americans every year — especially those living with osteoarthritis. For many, daily activities like walking, climbing stairs, or simply getting out of bed can become painful challenges.
While treatments like physical therapy, medications, and injections can help manage discomfort, they don’t always provide lasting relief. When those conservative options stop working, it doesn’t necessarily mean surgery is your only choice.
That’s where Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) comes in.

What Is Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)?

GAE is a minimally invasive, non-surgical procedure that targets the root cause of pain — inflammation in the knee joint.
During GAE, a vascular specialist uses advanced imaging to guide a tiny catheter into the arteries that supply the inflamed tissue in the knee. Small microscopic beads are then released to reduce blood flow to those inflamed areas, which decreases pain and improves function over time.
There are no large incisions, no general anesthesia, and minimal recovery time — most patients go home the same day.

How GAE Helps Relieve Pain

Osteoarthritis knee pain often comes from chronic inflammation in the lining of the joint (the synovium). By reducing the excess blood flow fueling that inflammation, GAE helps:

  • Reduce pain and swelling
  • Improve mobility and daily function
  • Delay or avoid knee replacement surgery
  • Restore quality of life

Most patients begin noticing improvements within 2–4 weeks after the procedure, with continued progress over the following months.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

GAE may be a great option for patients who:

  • Have been diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis

  • Still have pain despite physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or injections

  • Are not ready or not candidates for knee replacement surgery

A quick consultation and vascular imaging test can help determine if GAE is right for you.

The Benefits of Choosing a Vascular Approach

Because GAE treats the blood vessels themselves, it addresses the underlying inflammation — not just the symptoms. It’s performed by a vascular specialist trained to navigate the body’s circulatory system with precision and safety.
At Heart Vascular & Leg Center, our team performs GAE using state-of-the-art imaging and embolization technology, offering patients a faster, safer path to relief.

Take the First Step Toward Relief

If knee pain is limiting your life, it’s time to explore new options. You don’t have to live with constant discomfort or depend on medications forever.

“We prevent amputations.”

Ready to take the next step toward better vascular health? At Heart Vascular & Leg Center, our specialists provide advanced, minimally invasive treatments to restore circulation, relieve pain, and promote healing. Whether you’re a patient seeking answers or a healthcare provider looking to refer, we’re here to help deliver the best outcomes possible.
Schedule a consultation or make a referral today.
Call 661-324-4100 or email contact@heartandleg.com
Together, we can help our community move toward healthier legs, stronger hearts, and better lives.

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