Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) for Knee Pain
A minimally invasive, image-guided treatment for knee osteoarthritis pain — offered in Garden Grove, CA for patients who want relief without joint surgery.
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Quick answer: What is GAE?
Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure used to treat pain from knee osteoarthritis. A physician guides a small catheter through an artery to the genicular arteries that supply the knee and delivers tiny particles into selected abnormal blood vessels associated with inflammation. Reducing blood flow to these areas aims to decrease inflammation and relieve knee pain without joint surgery. GAE is offered at Community Vascular Institute in Garden Grove, CA by interventional radiologist Massoud Arbabzadeh, MD.
What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones gradually breaks down, causing changes within the joint. Over time this can lead to pain, stiffness, swelling and decreased mobility, making everyday activities more difficult.
Who is affected?
Osteoarthritis can affect anyone, but it becomes more common with age. It frequently affects joints under repeated movement or stress, including the knees and shoulders. People with previous joint injuries, physically demanding occupations, repetitive joint use or excess stress on weight-bearing joints may also be more likely to develop OA.
Three steps to relief
Catheter access
A small catheter is guided through an artery — typically at the wrist or upper thigh — to the genicular arteries around the knee.
Embolization
Microscopic particles are delivered to abnormal, inflamed blood vessels that contribute to pain.
Pain relief
Reduced blood flow to inflamed tissue decreases inflammation and pain, helping improve quality of life.
GAE may be an option if you:
- Have persistent knee pain from osteoarthritis
- Have not had enough relief from physical therapy, medications or joint injections
- Want to explore a minimally invasive alternative before considering surgery
- Are not ready for — or may not be a candidate for — knee replacement surgery
- Have knee pain that limits walking, exercise or everyday activities
Minimally invasive
Pinhole access, no incision.
Image-guided
Precise, targeted treatment.
Outpatient
Home the same day.
Joint preserving
No implant, no hardware.
How GAE compares
| Option | What it involves | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Physical therapy | Exercise, strengthening and activity modification to improve mobility and joint function | First-line; results depend on consistency |
| Medications | Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications to help manage symptoms | Long-term use may carry side effects |
| Injections | Corticosteroid or viscosupplement injections | May provide temporary relief |
| GAE at CVI | Minimally invasive, image-guided embolization through a small catheter targeting abnormal, inflamed blood vessels | Designed to reduce pain with minimal downtime while preserving the joint |
| Surgery | Partial or complete joint replacement | Considered when conservative treatments are no longer effective; longer recovery |
Your questions, answered
How long does GAE take?
The procedure typically takes about one to two hours, followed by a short recovery period before you go home the same day.
When will I feel better?
Many patients notice improvement within weeks, with continued improvement over the following months. Results vary by individual.
Can I still have knee replacement later?
Yes. GAE does not alter the joint itself, so it does not rule out future surgical options.
Who is not a candidate?
Patients with certain infections, severe peripheral artery disease or specific anatomical issues may not be candidates. Your consultation will determine eligibility.
Where is GAE offered in Orange County?
Community Vascular Institute offers Genicular Artery Embolization at 12827 Harbor Blvd, Suite G, Garden Grove, CA 92840. Call (562) 236-0650 to ask whether GAE is right for you.
Medically reviewed by Massoud Arbabzadeh, MD, Interventional Radiologist, Community Vascular Institute · Last updated October 2026. This page is for education and does not replace an individual medical evaluation.
Knee pain holding you back?
Find out if Genicular Artery Embolization is right for you.