Knee Replacement Alternative: Why Genicular Artery Embolization Works

Knee Replacement Alternative in Tampa and St. Petersburg, Florida. Have you been living with knee osteoarthritis pain, but you’re not ready for a full knee replacement? Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) might be the option that helps you stay active—without major surgery.

What is GAE?

GAE (Genicular Artery Embolization) is a minimally invasive procedure performed by a vascular specialist. Through a tiny pinhole in your foot, they guide a thin tube to small arteries around your knee and release microscopic particles. These particles block the unnecessary blood flow that’s feeding the inflamed tissue in the knee. By cutting off the problematic blood flow, the inflammation is drastically reduced, resulting in decreased knee pain. Patients go home and resume normal activity on the same day.

Why GAE helps knee arthritis pain

Osteoarthritis pain isn’t just “bone on bone.” Inflammation inside the knee is a big part of the problem. GAE turns down that inflammation by calming the overactive blood vessels that keep it going. When the inflammation eases, pain and swelling often improve. Patients often feel relief within just 2-3 weeks of the procedure, while others report pain relief immediately following the procedure.

Who is a good candidate for GAE?

The GAE procedure may be a good knee replacement alternative for you if you:

• Have osteoarthritis knee pain that’s still debilitating even after you have tried taking medications, had knee injections, and undergone physical therapy
• Want to avoid or delay knee replacement
• Prefer a minimally invasive approach that offers a quick recovery so you do not have to endure weeks of downtime

GAE may not be right for you if you have an active infection, severe knee deformity that clearly needs replacement, or certain bleeding/circulation issues. Our board certified vascular surgeon, Dr. Bunnell, can walk you through your eligibility for GAE, discussing the benefits with you.

To take our online GAE Screening Quiz now, you can click the button below to get started. You will submit your responses, and we will contact you to discuss your eligibility.

Symptoms that suggest you should ask about GAE

• Daily knee pain or aching that limits walking or climbing stairs

• Knee swelling or stiffness, especially after activity

• Night pain around your knees that disrupts sleep

• Knee pain flares after standing or long walks

• Relief from anti-inflammatory meds that doesn’t last

GAE vs. knee replacement

Let’s compare having GAE versus having knee replacement.

GAE is minimally invasive and requires no hospital stay for most patients.  The GAE procedure focuses on reducing pain and inflammation. It allows you to keep your natural knee joint, and you still have the option for other additional treatments later.

Knee replacement (TKA) is a major surgery that replaces the knee joint surfaces. It’s the gold standard for very advanced arthritis, but it comes with a hospital stay, rehab, and longer recovery.  In many reported cases, knee replacement does not stop the inflammation that exists surrounding the knee joint, so patients still report significant knee pain, even after knee replacement surgery.

What benefits can you expect after having the GAE procedure?

• Pain relief and better function for many patients
• Better mobility
• Improved overall quality of life
• Quick recovery: back to everyday activities in days to weeks for most
• Still allows you to have injections or a knee replacement later if needed

Our patients report life-changing pain relief and mobility with GAE.  They often say that they got their life back and are able to do the things they hadn’t been able to do for decades.

What are the risks of having Genicular Artery Embolization?

Most side effects are temporary and mild (soreness, small bruises, skin discoloration). Serious complications are uncommon, but any procedure has risks. Dr. Bunnell will review the specific risks that may apply to you and your unique health condition.

What to expect if you decide to have GAE

1. Consultation & imaging: During your initial consultations, we will confirm that you indeed suffer from osteoarthritis. We will discuss your symptoms in detail and discuss all the details of your case with you.  We will educate you on the procedure and you may even watch a video showing one of our patients having the GAE procedure in our outpatient suite.

2. Tiny access point: During the procedure, we will create a tiny, pinhole-sized access point, usually in the foot.  You will have local anesthesia in order to enjoy a painless procedure, and we also put you under light sedation so you can be relaxed.

3. Targeted treatment: Board-certified vascular surgeon, Dr. Bunnell, will use her endovascular skills and ultrasound guidance to access the tiny problematic arteries around the knee joint. These arteries have developed over time as an inflammatory response.  They should not be there, and they are the cause of your debilitating knee pain.  These tiny problematic arteries will be blocked with tiny particles so that the inflammation can be stopped.

4. Home the same day: Following the GAE procedure, patients can go home on the same day. You will be encouraged to walk to help with recovery. For the most part, you will be able to resume your normal, reasonable activities.

5. Follow-up: We will have you come back into the office for a follow-up visit to see how you’re doing and address any concerns or questions you may have.

FAQs

• DOES GAE REBUILD CARTILAGE? No. GAE targets inflammation to reduce pain; it does not regrow knee cartilage.

• HOW LONG DOES THE KNEE PAIN RELIEF LAST? Many patients report relief lasting months to a few years. If the knee pain returns, you may repeat GAE or consider other options.

• HOW LONG DOES THE GAE PROCEDURE TAKE? Typically 1–2 hours, plus time to recover before you go home the same day.

• HOW MUCH DOES GAE COST? IS IT COVERED BY INSURANCE? Coverage varies by plan and region. Ask your provider to check benefits and get an estimate before scheduling.

• WILL I HAVE ANY IMPLANTS OR HARDWARE? No. Tiny particles are delivered, but no metal or prosthetic parts remain.

• WHAT CAN I DO TO BOOST RESULTS? Follow the aftercare instructions by the Pinellas Vascular team, keep moving as advised, maintain a healthy weight, and continue strength/flexibility work. These support better, longer-lasting outcomes.

• CAN I DRIVE MYSELF HOME AFTER THE GAE PROCEDURE? No, since you will have been under sedation, it is recommended to arrange for someone to drive you home.

• WHAT IF I’M ON BLOOD THINNERS OR HAVE DIABETES? All your existing conditions and medications will be discussed prior to scheduling your procedure, and our team will advise you regarding any temporary medication adjustments and post-procedure monitoring.