A Physician’s Perspective on Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)

By Tony Brown, MD • RIA Endovascular

Knee pain is one of the most common complaints I hear from patients—especially those trying to stay active later in life. When pain limits mobility, it impacts everything: sleep, mood, hobbies, and simple daily activities. Many patients come to RIA Endovascular looking for options that don’t involve major surgery or long recovery periods.

One treatment that has transformed how we help patients with chronic knee pain is Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE). Here’s how I explain it to my patients and why it’s become such a powerful tool in improving their quality of life.

Understanding the Source of Knee Pain

For many people, chronic knee pain is tied to osteoarthritis—a gradual breakdown of cartilage that leads to inflammation in the joint. As arthritis progresses, the body forms extra small blood vessels around the knee. These vessels contribute to ongoing inflammation and pain.

This is where GAE comes in.

What Is Genicular Artery Embolization?

GAE is a minimally invasive procedure that reduces knee pain by decreasing blood flow to these tiny inflamed vessels.

Using image guidance, I make a small pinhole-sized entry in the skin and thread a catheter to the genicular arteries that supply the knee. Then, I inject microscopic particles to reduce blood flow to the inflamed areas—calming the cycle of swelling and pain.

The entire procedure is done through a single puncture, without the need for incisions, implants, or general anesthesia.

Why I Recommend GAE for Many Patients

I’ve seen GAE help a wide range of patients, especially those who:

Aren’t getting relief from injections, physical therapy, or medications
Want to delay or avoid knee replacement surgery
Can’t undergo surgery due to other medical conditions
Are looking for a faster recovery option with minimal downtime

Precision Matters

GAE isn't a one-size-fits-all procedure. Every patient’s knee anatomy and pain pattern are different. That’s why careful imaging, detailed planning, and interventional radiology expertise are essential.

At RIA Endovascular, we use advanced imaging to target only the areas causing pain while preserving healthy blood flow to the knee.

A Partner in Your Knee Pain Journey

As an interventional radiologist, my goal is simple: to offer safe, effective, minimally invasive options that help people reclaim their quality of life. Genicular Artery Embolization is one of the most exciting tools we have for knee pain—and I’ve seen firsthand the difference it can make.

If knee pain is interfering with your life, we’re here to help you explore whether GAE might be the right next step.