Global Knowledge, Local Impact: Dr. Ramaraj’s GEST 2025 Experience Advances Champion Heart and Cardiovascular Centre
From May 15–18, 2025, the world of interventional radiology gathered in the heart of New York City for the Global Embolization Symposium and Technologies (GEST) Annual Meeting — a premier global event advancing the science and application of embolization. Representing Champion Health System, Dr. Radhakrishnan Ramaraj joined this cutting-edge symposium to explore new technologies, exchange ideas, and strengthen international medical collaborations.
Shaping the Future of Embolization
GEST 2025 brought together leading physicians, researchers, and innovators to dive deep into the rapidly evolving landscape of image-guided therapies. Topics ranged from:
Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) for osteoarthritis
Neurovascular and oncological advancements
AI robotics in vascular procedures
Uterine fibroid and prostate embolization techniques
and multidisciplinary approaches to musculoskeletal (MSK) embolization
The conference fostered not only knowledge sharing but also hands-on learning, with practical lab sessions, live cases, and small-group discussions designed to enhance clinical confidence and capability.

Innovating Beyond Borders: Global Collaborations and Shared Vision
🤝 A Meeting of Minds: U.S.–Japan Medical Partnerships
Dr. Ramaraj with Professor Okuno from Japan, exploring collaborative approaches to vascular embolization across Asia and North America.
In a significant dialogue with Professor Okuno of Japan, Dr. Ramaraj discussed opportunities to strengthen transnational collaborations between the USA and Japan. Their discussion touched on standardizing best practices in vascular embolization, training programs, and exploring patient referral frameworks. These conversations are particularly important as Champion Heart and Cardiovascular Centre looks to integrate global standards into its local practice, bringing world-class vascular solutions closer to home.

Elevating Non-Surgical Pain Management with GAE
🧠 Learning from the Global Leader in Genicular Artery Embolization
With Professor Mark Little, a pioneer in using GAE to treat chronic knee pain in patients with osteoarthritis.
One of the standout learning moments came from Professor Mark Little (University of Reading and NHS, UK), a renowned expert in Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) — a non-surgical, image-guided treatment for chronic knee pain, especially for elderly patients with osteoarthritis who are poor candidates for surgery.
Dr. Ramaraj’s exposure to these advanced GAE protocols is set to benefit Champion Heart and Cardiovascular Centre by:
Introducing GAE as a new offering for musculoskeletal and vascular patients suffering from chronic joint pain
Reducing patient dependency on opioids or invasive surgeries
Expanding interventional options for ageing populations in the communities Champion serves
This represents a significant shift toward less invasive, faster-recovery therapies that align with Champion’s patient-centred model of care.
Redefining MSK Embolization: Championing Innovation in Chronic Pain Therapy
Dr. Ramaraj with world-class faculty at the MSK Embolization session during GEST 2025.
Dr. Ramaraj also participated in expert-led sessions on MSK (musculoskeletal) embolization, gaining insight into treating soft tissue pain, joint degeneration, and tendinopathy through precise, image-guided procedures.
By equipping Champion Heart and Cardiovascular Centre with this expertise, patients suffering from chronic orthopedic pain will soon have access to:
Minimally invasive MSK interventions
Faster recovery with fewer side effects
Improved quality of life for patients with limited surgical options
These techniques are already showing promising results globally, and Champion’s adoption of them will place the centre at the forefront of pain and vascular management in the region.
Investing in the Future of Interventional Cardiology
GEST 2025 wasn’t only about current practice — it also looked toward future leaders. The Physicians in Training Program highlighted emerging research by residents and fellows, fostering mentorship and innovation. Dr. Ramaraj’s involvement in these forums reinforces Champion’s commitment to:
Nurturing clinical talent
Integrating research-backed innovation into everyday care
Building a centre of excellence that thrives on continuous learning
What This Means for Champion Patients
The knowledge, global connections, and practical strategies gained from GEST 2025 are already shaping future projects at Champion Heart and Cardiovascular Centre, including:
Expansion of outpatient embolization clinics
Collaborative research with international faculty
Advanced care pathways for vascular and pain patients
Integration of AI-supported imaging techniques
All of these ensure better outcomes, shorter recovery times, and personalized patient care — the pillars of Champion’s promise.
A Vision That Travels, A Mission That Heals
Dr. Ramaraj’s participation in GEST 2025 wasn’t just a conference appearance — it was a declaration of Champion Health System’s commitment to global excellence in heart and vascular care. As we bring these learnings home, our patients can be assured that the very best of global medicine is now available in their own communities.
To learn more about our vascular and interventional services, visit
🌐 championhealthsystem.com
For more on the GEST Annual Meeting, visit
🔗 GEST 2025 Official Site