Genicular artery embolization, or GAE, is an outpatient, minimally invasive procedure to provide immediate and long-term pain relief for patients with osteoarthritis. The procedure decreases excess blood flow to the lining of the knee joint and reduces inflammation and pain. The procedure generally takes between 45 and 90 minutes. The patient is able to go home the same day.

How Does Osteoarthritis Cause Knee Pain?

Osteoarthritis is the wearing down of the protective tissue at the ends of the bones.

Degenerative joint disease can cause inflammation to the knee lining, resulting in an overgrowth of small blood vessels and nerves that may lead to knee pain.

GAE reduces excess blood flow, inflammation and pain in the inflamed knee joint lining.

What to Expect from GAE

Using live X-rays, an interventional radiologist at UF Health Jacksonville guides a small catheter to the arteries around the knee. Tiny particles are injected through the catheter to decrease the blood flow to the knee joint lining, reducing inflammation and pain.

Candidates for GAE Meet the Following Criteria

  • Knee stiffness or pain when standing and walking
  • Knee pain that is not adequately relieved by pain medication or physical therapy
  • Knee pain not yet severe enough for a joint replacement
  • Mild to moderate osteoarthritis of the knee or degenerative joint disease

Ask your physician for a referral, or call 904-244-6091 to set up a consultation.