Knee pain from osteoarthritis does not always require joint replacement. Soris Pain & Vascular Institute performs genicular artery embolization to reduce chronic knee inflammation through a single catheter puncture.
GAE targets the tiny arteries feeding inflamed synovial tissue. The result is measurable pain relief without surgical recovery.
Soris Pain & Vascular Institute
Genicular artery embolization (GAE) is a catheter-based procedure that selectively blocks abnormal neovascularity in the synovial lining of the knee joint, reducing the inflammatory blood supply responsible for chronic osteoarthritis pain.
The procedure was pioneered by Dr. Yuji Okuno, Founding Physician of Soris, and has shown sustained pain reduction in published clinical trials.
Our physicians thread a microcatheter through a small puncture in the wrist or groin artery. Using real-time fluoroscopic guidance, the catheter reaches the genicular arteries around the knee.
Microscopic embolic particles are delivered into the abnormal vessels. These particles block the inflammatory blood flow without affecting healthy circulation to the joint.
The entire procedure takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes. Sedation is available upon request or when medically indicated.
Procedure
Our team reviews your knee imaging and medical history during an initial consultation. Soris Pain & Vascular Institute may request an MRI or X-ray series if recent imaging is not available.
You lie on a procedure table in our outpatient suite. A small puncture provides catheter access. You may feel warmth near the knee as embolic particles are delivered, but patients report minimal discomfort.
Patients walk out of the clinic the same day. The puncture site receives a small bandage. Soris Pain & Vascular Institute schedules follow-up visits at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months to monitor your response.
Pain relief varies from person to person. Some patients may experience a temporary increase in pain after the procedure.
Benefits
GAE uses a single needle puncture smaller than the tip of a ballpoint pen. There are no sutures, no joint hardware, and no physical therapy protocols required afterward.
Soris Pain & Vascular Institute performs GAE as an outpatient procedure. The procedure typically takes about half a day, including recovery, and you'll be able to go home the same day.
Unlike knee replacement, GAE leaves the native joint intact. Patients who respond well may delay or avoid arthroplasty entirely.
Most patients resume normal daily routines within 24 to 48 hours. There are no weight-bearing restrictions after GAE.
Conditions Treated with GAE
GAE is indicated for patients with moderate to severe knee osteoarthritis who have not responded adequately to physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, or hyaluronic acid supplementation.
Patients who are not candidates for total knee replacement due to age, comorbidities, or personal preference may benefit from GAE as an alternative pain management strategy.
Collaboration
Our physicians perform GAE at our clinics. They have trained directly with international leaders in musculoskeletal embolization through our Physician Leadership program.
Our care team provides pre-procedure evaluation and post-procedure follow-up care for GAE patients.
FAQ
Published studies show pain reduction lasting 12 months or longer in the majority of treated patients. Soris Pain & Vascular Institute monitors your results at scheduled follow-ups and can discuss repeat treatment if symptoms return.
Coverage varies by plan. Our front-office team verifies your insurance benefits before scheduling the procedure. Soris Pain & Vascular Institute accepts most major insurance carriers.
Yes. GAE does not interfere with corticosteroid injections, physical therapy, or future surgical options. Patients who undergo GAE retain the full range of treatment choices for their knee.
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