Genicular Artery Embolization Raleigh
A Non-Surgical Solution for Chronic Knee Pain
If you’ve been dealing with ongoing knee pain and haven’t found lasting relief from medications, injections, or physical therapy, it may be time to consider a different approach.
At Champion Health System, we offer Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) in Raleigh and across North Carolina—an advanced, minimally invasive procedure designed to reduce inflammation and relieve chronic knee pain without surgery.
GAE is performed in an outpatient setting and targets the root cause of pain inside the knee joint. For many patients, it provides meaningful, long-term relief while helping avoid or delay knee replacement.
Who Is a Candidate for GAE?
Who Is a Candidate for GAE?
You may be a good candidate for Genicular Artery Embolization if:
- You have chronic knee pain due to osteoarthritis
- Your symptoms are limiting daily activities or mobility
- Conservative treatments (medications, injections, physical therapy) haven’t worked
- You want to avoid or delay knee replacement surgery
- You prefer a minimally invasive option with faster recovery
- You may not be an ideal candidate for surgery due to other health conditions
Our team will evaluate your imaging, symptoms, and medical history to determine if GAE is the right fit for you.
What to Expect During the GAE Procedure
Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is performed by a vascular specialist using advanced imaging to ensure precision and safety. During the procedure, a small area near the wrist or groin is numbed, and a tiny catheter is inserted into an artery. Using real-time imaging, the physician guides the catheter to the arteries supplying the inflamed areas of the knee, where microscopic particles are delivered to block abnormal blood flow. This reduction in blood flow helps decrease inflammation, leading to gradual pain relief and improved mobility. The procedure typically takes 1–2 hours and is performed on an outpatient basis.
What to Expect After GAE
After Genicular Artery Embolization, most patients return home the same day and resume light activities within a few days. You may experience mild soreness or discomfort at the treatment site, but this typically resolves quickly. Pain relief is gradual, with many patients noticing improvement over several weeks as inflammation decreases. Over time, this can lead to better mobility and reduced day-to-day discomfort.
Understanding GAE
What Is Genicular Artery Embolization?
Genicular Artery Embolization is a targeted, image-guided procedure used to treat chronic knee pain—most commonly caused by osteoarthritis.
Unlike treatments that temporarily mask symptoms, GAE works by addressing the underlying inflammation within the knee joint.
The procedure focuses on tiny blood vessels (genicular arteries) that supply inflamed tissue. These vessels can contribute to ongoing pain and swelling. By selectively blocking this abnormal blood flow, GAE helps reduce inflammation and relieve discomfort over time.
For many patients, this means meaningful, long-term pain relief without surgery.
Is GAE Right for Your Knee Pain?
Genicular Artery Embolization is primarily used to treat chronic knee pain caused by osteoarthritis (OA)—a degenerative joint condition where cartilage breakdown leads to inflammation, stiffness, and pain. Osteoarthritis-related knee pain is often persistent and may worsen over time, especially with activity.
GAE is specifically designed to target the inflammation associated with osteoarthritis by reducing abnormal blood flow to the affected areas of the knee. This helps decrease pain and improve mobility over time.
It’s important to note that GAE is not intended to treat all types of knee pain. Conditions such as acute injuries, ligament tears, or structural damage may require different treatment approaches. A thorough evaluation helps determine whether osteoarthritis is the primary cause of your symptoms and if GAE is the right solution.
Benefits of Genicular Artery Embolization
GAE is an effective alternative to knee replacement that is designed to provide lasting relief while minimizing disruption to your life.
Patients often experience:
- Significant reduction in osteoarthritis knee pain
- Decreased inflammation and swelling
- Improved mobility and joint function
- Faster recovery compared to surgery
- No general anesthesia or hospital stay
- Preservation of the natural knee joint
Most patients begin noticing improvement within weeks, with continued progress over time.
GAE vs. Other Knee Pain Treatments
| Treatment Option |
GAE (Embolization) |
Knee Replacement Surgery | Injections | Physical Therapy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Invasiveness |
Minimally invasive |
Major surgery | Non-invasive | Non-invasive |
| Anesthesia |
Local + sedation |
General | None | None |
| Recovery Time |
A few days |
Weeks to months | Minimal | Ongoing |
| Hospital Stay |
No |
Yes | No | No |
| Long-Term Relief |
Yes |
Yes | Temporary | Variable |
| Preserves Joint |
Yes |
No | Yes | Yes |
Why Choose Champion Health System for GAE?
Experienced Vascular Specialists
Our team of board-certified interventional radiologists is trained in advanced embolization techniques, ensuring precision and safety throughout your procedure.
Personalized, Patient-Centered Care
We take the time to understand your symptoms, goals, and lifestyle—creating a treatment plan tailored specifically to you.
Outpatient Convenience
All procedures are performed in our North Carolina clinics, allowing you to avoid hospital stays and recover in the comfort of your own home.
Frequently Asked Questions About GAE
How effective is Genicular Artery Embolization?
Clinical studies show that approximately 70–80% of patients experience significant pain relief following GAE, often within weeks of the procedure.
How long is the recovery after GAE?
Most patients return to light activity within a few days. Recovery is significantly faster than with knee replacement surgery.
Is GAE safe?
GAE is a minimally invasive procedure performed using advanced imaging by trained specialists. Complications are uncommon, and the procedure is generally well tolerated.
Will I still need knee replacement surgery later?
GAE can provide long-lasting relief and may help delay or avoid surgery. However, osteoarthritis is a progressive condition, and some patients may require additional treatment over time.
Is GAE covered by insurance?
Many insurance plans, including Medicare, may cover GAE when medically necessary. Our team will help verify your benefits and guide you through the process.
Take the Next Step Toward Knee Pain Relief
You don’t have to live with chronic knee pain or jump straight to surgery. Genicular Artery Embolization offers a modern, minimally invasive path to relief. Schedule your consultation today to find out if GAE is right for you.