Genicular Artery Embolization ( GAE )

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Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a safe, minimally invasive procedure designed to relieve chronic knee pain caused by osteoarthritis. 

As we age, especially after 50, the smooth cushion between knee bones (called cartilage) gradually wears down. This condition is known as knee osteoarthritis.

When cartilage thins out, the bones rub against each other, leading to:

• Pain and stiffness
• Swelling
• Difficulty in walking, bending, climbing stairs, or even sitting for long

Over time, this can greatly affect mobility and reduce quality of life.

Inside the knee, a thin lining called the synovium also becomes inflamed, increasing blood flow and new nerve growth—causing even more pain.

GAE is a non-surgical treatment for knee osteoarthritis.

It works by blocking tiny abnormal blood vessels (genicular arteries) that feed the inflamed areas of the knee. This reduces:

• Extra blood flow
• Inflammation
• Pain signals

1. The  skin near the groin or wrist is numbed.
2. A thin  tube (catheter) is inserted into a blood vessel.
3. With  X-ray guidance, the doctor moves the catheter into the knee’s blood  vessels.
4. Tiny  particles are injected to block abnormal vessels.
5. The procedure usually takes 1–2 hours.

GAE is usually recommended for people with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis (KL grade 1–3), especially if they:

• Are too young for knee replacement
• Have other medical problems making surgery risky
• Wish to avoid or delay surgery
• Have arthritis that still allows joint movement

• Most people return to normal activity in 1–2 days
• Pain usually improves within 1–2 weeks
• Benefits often continue to improve over months and for years.

 ✔️Minimally invasive (no major cuts)
✔️Local anaesthesia (no need for general anaesthesia)
✔️Usually a day-care procedure
✔️Noticeable pain relief in most of the patients
✔️Improved mobility and quality of life
✔️Can delay or reduce the need for knee replacement

• Mild pain or bruising at the entry site
• Temporary redness or warmth around the knee 

1) How long does GAE take?
About 60–90 minutes.

2) When will I feel better?
Most people notice pain relief within 2 weeks, with maximum improvement around 3 months.

3) How long do the results last?
Studies show pain relief can last up to 4 years in many patients.