Vascular & Endovascular
Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) for Knee Osteoarthritis
Genicular artery embolization is a non-surgical option for chronic knee osteoarthritis pain. Through a small groin or wrist puncture, tiny particles calm inflamed vessels around the joint, It is an option for people with persistent knee osteoarthritis pain who have not gotten relief from injections, therapy, or medication, and who are not ready for or not candidates for knee replacement.
AVERAGE PROCEDURE TIME
60 to 90 minutes
Anesthesia
Light sedation, local
Recovery
Same day, 2 to 4 hours
Ride home
Required if you receive sedation
Overview
Genicular artery embolization treats the pain of knee osteoarthritis without cutting or replacing the joint. Arthritic knees grow abnormal, inflamed blood vessels in the joint lining, and those vessels carry the nerves that produce constant pain.
Through a puncture at the wrist or groin, microscopic particles are delivered to those abnormal vessels only. Inflammation quiets, and pain typically declines over the following weeks.
GAE is an option for people with persistent knee osteoarthritis pain who have not gotten relief from injections, therapy, or medication, and who are not ready for or not candidates for knee replacement.
Is this right for me?
Candidacy is confirmed after a review of your history, imaging, and medications. Patients we most often treat include those with:
- Moderate to severe knee osteoarthritis pain lasting more than six months
- Limited relief from injections, therapy, or anti-inflammatories
- Not a candidate for knee replacement, or wanting to delay it
- Pain and tenderness that localize to the knee joint lining
What to expect, step by step
Arrival and preparation
You check in with a coordinator, change into a gown, and meet your nurse. Vitals are taken, an IV is started if needed, and your care team reviews the plan and answers questions with your caregiver present.
Targeted angiogram
A microcatheter maps the genicular arteries around the knee and identifies the abnormal vessels feeding the painful lining.
Embolization
Calibrated particles are released into those vessels only, reducing blood flow to inflamed tissue while sparing normal circulation.
Confirming the result
Repeat imaging confirms the abnormal blush has resolved and that healthy vessels remain open.
Recovery suite
You rest in a private recovery bay while your nurse monitors vitals and comfort. Written instructions are reviewed with you and your caregiver before discharge.
Home the same day
A caregiver drives you home. A member of our team calls the next business day to check on you and confirm your follow-up appointment.
Recovery
Most patients walk out the same day. Mild soreness or bruising at the puncture site settles in a few days.
Pain relief is gradual: many notice improvement within two to four weeks, with continued gains through three months.
Risks and what we watch for
Every procedure carries risk. These are the ones we discuss most often for this procedure.
- Bleeding, bruising, or soreness at the access site or incision
- Infection, which is why sterile technique and, when indicated, antibiotics are used
- Reaction to sedation, anesthesia, or contrast dye, monitored continuously by your anesthesia provider
- Incomplete relief of symptoms, or symptoms that return over time
- The need for additional treatment, imaging, or a different procedure
- Rarely, a complication serious enough to require a higher level of care than an outpatient setting provides
We review these with you in detail before you consent, and you can change your mind at any point.
Coverage note
Artery embolization for joint and soft-tissue pain is a newer, minimally invasive treatment. Some health plans consider it investigational and may not cover it. Our team will verify your specific benefits in writing before anything is scheduled.
Prepare for this procedure
- Before your surgery
- The day of your procedure
- Anesthesia and sedation
- Recovery at home and when to call
Frequently asked questions
Does GAE replace a knee replacement?
No. It is an option for patients who cannot have or do not want a replacement, and it can delay one by treating pain at its source.
Will I still need therapy?
Yes. Strengthening the muscles around the knee protects and extends your result.
Can it be repeated?
It can be repeated if symptoms return, and it does not prevent future surgery.
Is genicular artery embolization done as an outpatient procedure?
Yes. It is performed at our ACHC-accredited ambulatory surgery center in The Woodlands, minutes from Tomball and Spring, and patients go home the same day with a caregiver.
Will my insurance cover it?
Coverage depends on your specific plan and benefits. Our team verifies your benefits and gives you a written estimate before anything is scheduled.
Do you offer Spanish-speaking support?
Yes. Bilingual English and Spanish coordination is available from your first call through recovery instructions and follow-up.
