GAE for Osteoarthritis: A Non-Surgical Option for Chronic Knee Pain
Living with osteoarthritis in the knee can be exhausting. When conservative treatments stop working and surgery feels like too much, you may feel stuck with daily pain. But there’s another way.
Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a non-surgical, image-guided procedure that targets the root cause of knee pain in osteoarthritis. It offers lasting relief, often without the need for joint replacement or ongoing injections.
At United Knee & Vascular Centers, we specialize in providing this innovative treatment to help patients move more freely, without pain.
Understanding Osteoarthritis and Knee Pain
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people as they age. In the knee, it gradually wears down cartilage, causing the bones to rub together. But the pain isn’t just from joint damage—inflammation plays a major role.
As inflammation builds, the body sends more blood to the knee through small vessels called genicular arteries. This extra blood flow feeds the pain cycle, causing swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

That’s where GAE makes a difference.
What Is GAE—and How Does It Help?
Genicular Artery Embolization is a minimally invasive vascular outpatient procedure performed by an interventional specialist. It works by:
- Identifying the arteries supplying excess blood to the inflamed knee lining.
- Delivering tiny particles (microspheres or embolic agents) through a catheter to block those arteries.
- Reducing inflammation at the source—without damaging healthy tissue.
The result: less pain, better mobility, or long recovery time.
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Who Is a Candidate for GAE?
GAE is ideal for individuals with moderate to severe knee osteoarthritis who:
- Have not found relief from physical therapy, medications, or injections
- Want to delay or avoid total knee replacement surgery
- Are not candidates for surgery due to other health conditions
During your consultation at United Knee & Vascular Centers, we’ll assess your symptoms, imaging, and goals to determine if GAE is right for you.
Benefits of GAE for Osteoarthritis
Patients often choose GAE because it offers:
- Minimally invasive relief with no general anesthesia
- Outpatient procedure—go home the same day
- Fewer risks and faster recovery than joint replacement
- Meaningful pain reduction in as little as 2–4 weeks
- Improved mobility for walking, climbing stairs, or standing longer
Clinical studies show GAE can reduce pain scores and improve joint function for 6–12 months or longer. And if needed, the procedure can be safely repeated in the future.
Why Choose United Knee & Vascular Centers?
We’re one of the nation’s leading providers of Genicular Artery Embolization. Our team includes board-certified vascular specialists who use advanced imaging technology and personalized care plans to deliver the best outcomes.
From your first consultation to post-procedure recovery, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
If chronic knee pain from osteoarthritis is limiting your life, GAE may be the non-surgical solution you’ve been searching for.
Find a clinic near you today to find out if GAE is right for your osteoarthritis pain.
Schedule your consultation today!
Don't wait! Take the first step towards a healthier, happier you.