1400 Reynolds Ave. Ste 110 Irvine, CA 92614

949-387-4724

Mon - Fri: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Genicular Artery Embolization

GAE: Relief Without Replacement

Genicular artery embolization (GAE) is an interventional radiology procedure used to treat knee pain due to osteoarthritis. The procedure minimizes the flow of blood to the knee lining (synovium). Osteoarthritis causes the bones in the knee joint to rub each other, creating friction. This leads to an increased flow of blood to the knee due to inflammation. Genicular artery embolization (GAE) is a relatively new and effective minimally invasive procedure that is ideal for people with

  • Mild to severe knee osteoarthritis
  • People who have not responded to medication, injections, and therapy
  • People who are not ready to undergo partial or complete knee replacement surgery

While the procedure does not treat the underlying cartilage damage, it effectively treats the symptoms associated with knee arthritis. Additionally, unlike knee surgery, physical therapy is unnecessary after undergoing the Genicular artery embolization (GAE) procedure.

One In Four Adults Suffer From
Chronic Knee Pain

Have you been diagnosed with Osteoarthritis of the knee or experienced the following symptoms?

Popping or Crackling in the Knee

Loss of Flexibility in the Knee

Swelling in the Knee

Knee Pain During or
After Movement

Stiffness when Waking up
or Being Active

Grating Sensation during Knee Movement

How is GAE Performed?

At Pedes Orange County, our specialists perform GAE. GAE is an outpatient procedure that takes 1-2 hours, under light sedation, and requires very minimal recovery time.

During GAE, a catheter is inserted, via a small puncture site, in the leg and into the blood vessels that supply the knee joint using X-ray guidance. Once positioned, tiny microsphere particles are carefully released to slow the blood supply to the inflamed portions of the knee joint. The decrease in blood flow reduces pain and swelling associated with osteoarthritis of the knee.

Genicular Artery Embolization

01

Considered Minimally Invasive

02

No General Anesthesia

03

Go Home Same Day

04

No Downtime Recovery or Rehab

vs

Knee Replacement

01

Considered a Major Surgery

02

General Anesthesia and Hospital Stay Required

03

Bedrest Recovery Required

04

Up to 6 Months of Recovery & Rehab

What to Expect from Your Visit to Pedes

Ultrasound

Your treatment will begin with an ultrasound examination of your veins, arteries, or both, in your legs to diagnose the presence and extent of the disease. Your test results will be immediately available to review with the doctor.

Consult

Once we review the results of your diagnostic tests, our physicians will help you develop a plan to provide you with the best treatment for your disease.

Treatment

Your treatment will begin with an ultrasound examination of your veins, arteries, or both, in your legs to diagnose the presence and extent of the disease. Your test results will be immediately available to review with the doctor.

Follow up

Your treatment will begin with an ultrasound examination of your veins, arteries, or both, in your legs to diagnose the presence and extent of the disease. Your test results will be immediately available to review with the doctor.

Talk to a Vascular Specialist

Email our Genicular Artery Embolization Specialists