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At Surgical Specialists of Ocala, we are dedicated to providing the most advanced, minimally invasive treatments for vascular and now joint-related knee discomfort.
If you are suffering from chronic knee pain caused by osteoarthritis and have found little relief from traditional treatments or are not a surgical candidate, Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) may be the breakthrough solution you’ve been searching for.
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What Is Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)?
Genicular Artery Embolization is an innovative, non-surgical procedure designed to reduce chronic knee pain by decreasing the blood flow to the lining of the knee (the synovium). In patients with osteoarthritis, this lining often becomes inflamed and develops an excess of tiny blood vessels, which contributes to persistent pain and stiffness.
By using image-guided technology to block these specific “extra” blood vessels, GAE effectively reduces inflammation and provides long-term pain relief without the need for invasive joint replacement surgery.
A recent meta-analysis of GAE reported the procedure as having a 99.7% technical success rate, making it one of the highest-rated non-invasive techniques for osteoarthritis patients.
Who Can Benefit From GAE?
GAE is primarily intended for patients suffering from moderate to severe knee pain associated with osteoarthritis. It is an excellent option for individuals who:
- Experience chronic knee pain that interferes with daily activities.
- Have tried physical therapy, joint injections, or anti-inflammatory medications with limited success.
- Are not yet ready for (or are not candidates for) total knee replacement surgery.
What to Expect During a GAE Procedure
At our practice, GAE is performed in a specialized outpatient outpatient vascular lab. Here are the five steps of a typical GAE procedure:
- Preparation: You will receive light sedation to ensure you are relaxed.
- Access: A tiny catheter is inserted through a small incision in the groin or thigh.
- Mapping: Using advanced X-ray imaging, our vascular specialists navigate the catheter to the genicular arteries surrounding the knee.
- Embolization: Small particles are released into the specific arteries causing inflammation to reduce blood flow to the inflamed tissue.
- Recovery: The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours. Our patients can return home the same day with only a small bandage at the incision site.
Patients are able to return home on the same day and recovery is typically fast, with many patients reporting less pain and greater mobility within just a few weeks. A significant advantage over surgery is the absence of a hospital stay, allowing patients to resume their normal activities much sooner.
Why Choose Surgical Specialists of Ocala?
At Surgical Specialists of Ocala, we combine board-certified expertise with a compassionate, patient-first approach to ensure you receive the highest quality of vascular care in a comfortable environment.
Don’t let chronic knee pain limit your mobility or your quality of life. Our expert team is here to help you determine if Genicular Artery Embolization is the right path for your recovery.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss your symptoms with our specialists.
Frequently Asked Questions About GAE
Many patients report a significant reduction in pain within 1–2 weeks of the procedure, with results typically lasting between 6 months to several years.
GAE is a minimally invasive alternative that can delay or eliminate the need for surgery in many patients. However, it does not prevent you from having a knee replacement in the future if it becomes necessary.
Because GAE is non-surgical, recovery is very quick. Most patients return to their normal daily activities within 24 to 48 hours.
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and “twilight” sedation. Most patients feel little to no discomfort during the process.
Coverage varies by provider and plan. Our office team is happy to help you navigate your insurance benefits and determine if GAE is covered under your specific policy.
