Minimally Invasive Genicular Artery Embolization for Effective Knee Pain Relief

Find a Doctor: Genicular Artery Embolization Near Me Ohio

Physical therapist helping a man with a knee mobility exercise during a rehabilitation session, focusing on improving flexibility and strength for knee recovery

Dealing with chronic knee pain can make daily activities harder than they should be. If you’re searching for “non-surgical knee pain treatment near me” or “genicular artery embolization near me” in Ohio, Knee Pain 360 is here to help.

We specialize in non-surgical treatment options like genicular artery embolization (GAE)—a minimally invasive procedure offering real relief for osteoarthritis-related knee pain without the need for knee replacement surgery

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What is genicular artery embolization (GAE)?

Genicular artery embolization is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure performed by an interventional radiologist. Using imaging guidance and a small catheter, tiny particles—sometimes called microscopic beads—are injected into the genicular arteries. These particles block blood flow to abnormal blood vessels causing inflammation inside the knee joint.

By targeting the root cause of knee osteoarthritis pain, GAE can reduce swelling, ease joint pain, and preserve your ability to stay active—without large incisions or lengthy hospital stays.

Why consider GAE for chronic knee pain in Ohio?

Knee osteoarthritis is a major cause of chronic pain and mobility loss in older adults. Traditional options like physical therapy, steroid injections, and pain medications offer some relief, but their effects are often temporary.

Genicular artery embolization addresses debilitating knee pain at the source by:

  • Blocking blood flow to inflamed areas to directly address the problem
  • Reducing inflammation without harming healthy tissue
  • Avoiding the need for surgery or extended recovery room stays
  • Helping patients maintain normal activities and avoid total knee arthroplasty (knee replacement surgery)

For many patients, GAE targets the source of pain with minimal disruption and leads to significant improvement in mobility and comfort.

How is the GAE procedure performed?

During genicular artery embolization, your interventional radiologist will:

  • Use contrast dye and advanced imaging to map the main arteries supplying the knee.
  • Insert a thin catheter through a small incision near the groin or in the wrist.
  • Deliver tiny particles into the affected blood vessels, reducing blood supply to inflamed tissue.
  • Carefully monitor blood flow throughout the artery embolization process.

The outpatient procedure typically takes under two hours. Most patients are discharged home the same day with no need for general anesthesia—only local anesthesia with mild sedation.

What to expect when getting GAE treatment in Ohio

Step 1: Initial consultation and risk assessment

Finding a knee arthritis doctor near you is the first step. Take our quick online assessment to see if you qualify for GAE.

Step 2: Personalized treatment planning

During your consultation, your doctor will review imaging, medical history, and symptoms to create a plan tailored to your needs.

Step 3: GAE procedure

The GAE procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, allowing you to walk the same day and start light activities within a few days—much faster than recovery after knee replacement surgery.

FAQs: GAE and non-surgical knee treatments in Ohio

What is better for knee pain—surgery or injections?

Knee injections, like steroid injections, offer temporary relief during initial treatment stages. Knee surgery is more invasive, requires large incisions, and involves a longer recovery period. For many patients, GAE provides a middle ground—long-lasting relief without surgery.

For osteoarthritis-related knee pain, genicular artery embolization is emerging as a promising non-surgical option, especially for those who haven’t found relief with other treatments.

Ideal candidates include those who:

  • Have knee osteoarthritis (knee OA)
  • Struggle with chronic knee pain despite physical therapy or pain medications
  • Prefer to delay or avoid knee replacement surgery
  • Suffer from joint pain and discomfort that impacts daily living

You should seek care if you have:

  • Ongoing swelling or inflammation
  • Difficulty walking, sleeping, or enjoying normal activities
  • Pain that worsens over time or after initial treatments fail

GAE is best suited for:

  • Osteoarthritis-related knee pain
  • Synovitis (inflammation inside the knee)
  • Vascular issues within the knee joint
  • Cases of recurrent bleeding (hemarthrosis)

It is not recommended for injuries involving ligaments, fractures, or severe bone instability.

Most patients in Ohio experience meaningful pain relief for 12-24 months or more after GAE. Some may eventually undergo a second treatment if symptoms return.

Genicular artery embolization side effects are rare but can include:

  • Mild bruising
  • Temporary soreness
  • Brief fatigue after the procedure

Serious complications are uncommon, thanks to the expertise of our Ohio specialists in advanced interventional radiology techniques.

Genicular artery embolization cost varies based on your insurance and treatment provider. Our Ohio team will walk you through your expected costs before any procedure.

Unlike knee replacement surgery, GAE recovery is fast:

  • Discharged on an outpatient basis the same day
  • Return to light activity in 2–3 days
  • Full return to regular activities within about a week

There’s no need for a prolonged hospital stay or large incisions, allowing you to heal faster and get back to daily life with minimal disruption.

If you’re looking for knee pain treatment without surgery near you, Knee Pain 360 makes it easy to take the next step.

Discover how a minimally invasive procedure like GAE can help you move better, feel better, and get back to living life—with minimal downtime.

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Still have questions? Email us at info@kneepain360.com.

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