Genicular Artery Embolization

Chronic knee pain from osteoarthritis can limit mobility, reduce quality of life, and make everyday activities difficult. Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is an innovative, minimally invasive procedure designed to relieve knee pain without surgery—offering a promising alternative for patients who are not ready for or want to avoid joint replacement.

While many patients assume knee pain must be treated by an orthopedic surgeon, GAE is performed by vascular surgeon or interventional radiologist, making CANJ uniquely positioned to deliver this advanced therapy.

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a non-surgical, image-guided procedure that treats knee pain caused by osteoarthritis by reducing inflammation in the joint.

Performed by a vascular surgeon (specialist), GAE blocks abnormal blood vessels in the knee that contribute to inflammation and pain. These vessels develop as part of the body’s response to joint degeneration and can worsen symptoms over time.

By targeting these vessels, GAE:

• Reduces inflammation
• Decreases pain signals
• Improves joint function and mobility

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a minimally invasive procedure that reduces knee pain by blocking abnormal blood vessels responsible for inflammation in osteoarthritis.

By targeting the blood vessels directly, GAE treats the root cause—not just the symptoms.

Osteoarthritis is not just “wear and tear”—it also involves chronic inflammation and abnormal blood vessel growth (neovascularization) within the joint.

GAE works by:

• Identifying abnormal genicular arteries supplying inflamed tissue
• Delivering tiny embolic particles (microspheres) into these vessels
• Blocking excess blood flow to inflamed areas
• Reducing inflammation and pain at the source

This process helps restore a more normal joint environment and can significantly improve symptoms.

You may be a candidate if you:

• Have knee osteoarthritis (mild to moderate)
• Experience ongoing pain despite:
  • Physical therapy
  • Cortisone or gel injections
  • Medications
• Want to avoid or delay knee replacement surgery
• Are not an ideal surgical candidate

• Minimally invasive (no large incisions)
• No general anesthesia required
• Outpatient procedure
• Reduced recovery time
• Preserves future treatment options, including surgery
• Targets the root cause of inflammation

GAE is performed by a vascular surgeon or interventional radiologist in an outpatient setting.

Step-by-Step Overview:

1. Access: A small catheter is inserted through a tiny incision (typically in the groin or wrist)
2. Imaging Guidance: Contrast dye and real-time imaging identify abnormal blood vessels
3. Embolization: Tiny particles are injected to block targeted vessels
4. Completion: The catheter is removed, and a bandage is applied

The procedure typically takes 1–2 hours and does not require general anesthesia.

Most patients experience:

• Reduced knee pain within weeks
• Improved mobility and function
• Better quality of life

Many patients return to daily activities quickly with minimal downtime.

At CANJ, we bring cardiovascular precision to pain management.

• Expertise in vascular and interventional procedures
• Advanced imaging and minimally invasive techniques
• Patient-centered, outpatient care

We don’t just treat the heart—we treat the entire vascular system, including the source of inflammation causing knee pain.

Schedule a Consultation

If knee pain is limiting your life, Genicular Artery Embolization may be an option. Contact Cardiac Associates of North Jersey today to learn more.