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Carolina Endovascular Center | Expert Vascular Care

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)

A non-surgical alternative to treat knee osteoarthritis in Greensboro and Charlotte

Overview | GAE Preparation Instructions | FAQs

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Genicular artery embolization (GAE) is a new minimally invasive option to treat knee Osteoarthritis (OA). It bridges the gap between medications and injections on one end, and knee replacement surgery on the other.

Using advanced imaging guidance, we treat the abnormal blood flow that drives inflammation and pain—without open surgery or a hospital stay. Most patients experience a short recovery and meaningful improvement in symptoms. GAE has even been shown to be effective in patients with persistent pain after knee replacement surgery.

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)

Why consider genicular artery embolization?

  • High success rate – GAE is up to 85% successful at significantly reducing knee pain
  • No hospitalization – GAE is performed in our convenient outpatient center
  • No general anesthesia – GAE only requires “twilight” sedation during the procedure
  • Lasting results– Studies show sustained improvement for over a year
  • Shorter recovery – You can return home the same day as the procedure and resume most normal activities in a few days
  • No scarring – unlike surgery, there will be no visible scar(s) left on the knee
  • Less risk – Surgical procedures like total knee replacement have higher intraoperative and post-operative risks
  • Less expensive than surgery – This can make a real difference when it comes to insurance deductibles and co-pays

What happens during the GAE procedure?

Performed by a specially trained doctor called an interventional radiologist, GAE is performed completely within the body’s bloodstream using a tiny catheter and miniature instruments. Imaging is used to guide the catheter through the body to the genicular arteries that supply blood to the synovium—the lining of the knee. Once there, tiny particles or specialty medications are injected into the abnormal arteries. This decreases blood flow to the joint, reducing pain and inflammation.

Why visit Carolina Endovascular for your GAE procedure?

GAE is not widely available and there are few physicians more experienced at this procedure than the doctors at Carolina Endovascular. We also offer a more patient-friendly, comfortable and service-oriented treatment center with minimal waiting and a superior patient experience.

Carolina Endovascular delivers a very different experience. With our primary focus on you, we deliver a level of concierge-style service uncommon in healthcare today. Our doctors are just as experienced as hospital doctors; in fact, they used to work at hospitals and have extensive experience performing advanced embolization procedures like GAE. Our staff has all the required safety equipment and training. Additionally, the same procedure costs less at our center, which can save you money when it comes to insurance deductibles and co-pays.

GAE Preparation Instructions

  • Please inform us about any medications that you are taking, including herbal supplements. Also, please inform us if you have any allergies, or have had allergic reactions to local anesthetic agents, any medications or contrast (also known as “X-ray dye”).
  • Our staff may advise you to stop taking aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Tylenol, Advil) or a blood thinning medication for a period of time before your procedure.
  • Please inform us if you have other medical conditions or have recently experienced an illness.
  • You may take your usual medications, including blood pressure medications, unless otherwise instructed.
  • You may be asked not to eat or drink anything for several hours before your procedure.
  • Expect to remain for 1-2 hours after your procedure for a period of observation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)

You may be a candidate for genicular artery embolization (GAE) if you have knee osteoarthritis pain that has not improved with conservative treatments such as medications, injections, or physical therapy. Many patients choose GAE because they want to avoid or delay knee replacement surgery, or because they are not good candidates for surgery due to other health conditions. You may also be a candidate if you have persistant knee pain after a prior knee replacment. A consultation and imaging evaluation will help determine whether this treatment is right for you.

GAE has been shown to be highly effective for reducing knee osteoarthritis pain. Clinical studies report that the majority of patients experience significant pain relief and improved function after the procedure. Many patients notice improvement within weeks, with long-lasting results.

GAE is a minimally invasive procedure and not considered painful. The procedure is performed with local numbing medication and light “twilight” sedation to keep you comfortable. You may feel mild soreness or fatigue for a few days afterward, but significant pain is uncommon.

Recovery from GAE is typically much faster than knee surgery. Most patients:

  • Go home the same day
  • Resume normal activities within a few days

Because there is no surgical incision in the knee joint, recovery is generally easier than knee replacement surgery.

GAE is considered a safe, minimally invasive procedure when performed by experienced specialists. It does not involve open surgery or general anesthesia, which reduces many risks associated with traditional surgical treatments. As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks, but complications are uncommon and usually mild.

Costs vary depending on your insurance plan and individual circumstances. Many patients receive partial or full insurance coverage. Even when paying out of pocket, GAE is typically less expensive than knee replacement surgery. Our team can help verify your insurance benefits and discuss expected costs before treatment.

We have two centers conveniently located in Charlotte, NC and Greensboro, NC.

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