What Is Genicular Artery Embolization? Your Guide to Non-Surgical Knee Pain Relief

Introduction: A New Path to Pain-Free Knees

Imagine waking up one morning and stepping out of bed without that familiar stab of knee pain. Imagine climbing stairs with ease, or kneeling to garden or play with your grandchildren—without wincing in agony. If chronic knee pain is limiting your life, but the idea of major surgery fills you with dread, there’s a breakthrough you need to know about: Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE).

At the Vascular Institute of Michigan (VIM), GAE is transforming lives across Flint, Lapeer, and Owosso. This minimally invasive, outpatient procedure targets the root cause of knee osteoarthritis pain—without cutting, without general anesthesia, and without long recovery times. Whether you’re stuck between failed injections and not-quite-bad-enough-for-surgery status, or just looking for a safe, effective solution backed by clinical research, this guide is for you.

In this comprehensive article, you’ll learn:

• What GAE is and how it works

• Why it’s becoming the go-to option for osteoarthritis sufferers

• What to expect before, during, and after the procedure

• Why more patients are choosing the Vascular Institute of Michigan for knee pain relief

• How to know if you’re a candidate—and what steps to take next

Let’s take a step-by-step look at how GAE might be the pain solution you didn’t know existed—but always hoped for.

Why Chronic Knee Pain Needs Better Options

The Osteoarthritis Epidemic

Knee pain isn’t just an annoyance—it’s a life-altering condition affecting millions of Americans. Osteoarthritis (OA), the most common form of arthritis, impacts roughly 1 in 6 adults, causing joint degeneration that worsens over time. It’s especially prevalent among older adults, women, and those who’ve led active or labor-intensive lives.

What makes OA particularly tricky is its slow, relentless march. Cartilage wears down, inflammation builds, and everyday motions like standing, bending, or walking become excruciating. The pain is often described as a deep, aching stiffness—worse after sitting, walking too long, or during cold weather.

But recent research shows something deeper: OA pain isn’t just about cartilage loss. It’s also about abnormal blood vessels and chronic inflammation. New blood vessels grow into the sensitive knee lining, bringing nerve endings that make the pain even worse. That’s the true root of the problem.

And that’s where Genicular Artery Embolization comes in.

The Treatment Gap Between Shots and Surgery

You’ve probably tried the typical treatments: over-the-counter pain meds, steroid or gel injections, even physical therapy or weight loss strategies. And yet, the pain keeps coming back.

Many patients are told by their orthopedic surgeons: “You’re not ready for a knee replacement yet—come back in a few years.”

Sound familiar?

It creates a frustrating treatment gap: your pain is real, but your only options seem to be repeat injections—or major surgery you’re not ready for. And that surgery? It’s invasive, expensive, and requires months of recovery.

So what if there were a third option?

Introducing GAE – A Minimally Invasive Revolution

What GAE Is and How It Works

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a breakthrough procedure that targets the source of chronic knee pain—inflammation. Performed by vascular specialists like those at the Vascular Institute of Michigan, GAE works by identifying and blocking the abnormal blood vessels fueling inflammation in the knee joint lining.

Here’s how it works:

• A tiny catheter is inserted into a blood vessel in the upper thigh or groin.

• Using real-time imaging, the physician guides it to the genicular arteries—the vessels supplying the inflamed areas of your knee.

• Once there, microscopic particles are released to block those specific vessels, reducing blood flow and halting the inflammatory cycle.

The result? Less inflammation, less pain, and improved knee function—all without cutting into your knee or replacing any joints.

As studies have shown, pain scores often drop from 8/10 to 3/10 within a week, with many patients reporting continued improvement for months and even years [# Comprehensive Guide to GAE].

Learn more about how GAE is performed at VIM

What Happens During the Procedure

GAE is done right in the comfort of an outpatient clinic—no hospital admission required. At the Vascular Institute of Michigan, the procedure typically takes 60 to 90 minutes.

Here’s what to expect:

• You’ll be awake but sedated (twilight sleep), and only a local anesthetic is needed.

• A small pinhole is made in your upper thigh to insert the catheter—no stitches or surgical cuts.

• Using advanced imaging (fluoroscopy), the doctor finds and embolizes the inflamed genicular arteries.

• Once complete, the catheter is removed and a bandage is applied—no big dressings, no recovery room stay.

Most patients walk out the same day.

Recovery Timeline & Expectations

Unlike knee surgery, GAE requires little downtime. Here’s a typical recovery timeline:

• Day 1–2: You may feel mild soreness at the puncture site or in the knee, easily managed with over-the-counter meds.

• Week 1: Many patients begin noticing pain reduction.

• Weeks 2–4: Inflammation continues to drop; walking, climbing stairs, and daily tasks become easier.

• Months 1–3: Functional improvements and pain relief peak. Some patients report returning to exercise or hobbies they thought they had lost for good.

There’s no need for rehab, no hospital stay, and minimal disruption to your daily life—just real, lasting relief.

How GAE Compares to Traditional Knee Treatments

GAE vs Knee Replacement

GAE doesn’t burn bridges. If it works (as it does for most patients), you delay or avoid surgery for years. If surgery becomes necessary later, you can still have it. There’s nothing to lose—and a lot of relief to gain.

GAE vs Injections & Physical Therapy

While cortisone shots, hyaluronic acid (gel) injections, or physical therapy offer temporary relief, they don’t stop the inflammation loop. GAE goes deeper:

Who Is GAE Right For?

Ideal Candidates

Genicular Artery Embolization is designed for people who are stuck in the middle—those who’ve exhausted conservative options, but aren’t quite ready (or willing) to undergo knee replacement surgery. At the Vascular Institute of Michigan, we often see patients who say:

“I’ve tried the pills. I’ve done the shots. I’m not ready for surgery—but I’m sick of the pain.”

The ideal candidate for GAE is someone who:

• Has mild to moderate osteoarthritis of the knee (confirmed by X-ray or exam)

• Experiences daily pain, stiffness, or swelling despite other treatments

• Has tried NSAIDs, cortisone or gel injections, physical therapy, or bracing with little or short-lived relief

• Is looking to avoid or delay knee replacement

• May not be a good surgical candidate due to age, weight, medical conditions, or personal preference

GAE is also an option for post-knee replacement patients who still have persistent pain—especially when imaging reveals inflammation in the surrounding tissues.

If that sounds like you, book your free consultation and let’s see if GAE could be the breakthrough you’ve been waiting for.

When GAE May Not Be Appropriate

While GAE is a powerful tool, it isn’t right for everyone. You may not be a candidate if:

• You have advanced “bone-on-bone” arthritis with complete joint space loss

• You suffer from severe peripheral artery disease in the legs

• You have serious kidney issues that prevent the use of contrast dye

• You are allergic to the embolic materials or contrast agents used in the procedure

But don’t worry—if GAE isn’t right for you, we’ll help you find a better fit. Our team at VIM is committed to giving you honest, expert advice tailored to your unique health situation.

How Safe and Effective Is GAE?

Clinical Outcomes & Success Rates

Genicular Artery Embolization is not only FDA-cleared, but it’s also backed by robust clinical data from around the world.

Recent studies report:

• Pain scores dropping from 8/10 to 3/10 within a week after GAE

• Up to 87% of patients reporting improved quality of life one year later

• Lasting results: most patients experience relief for 1–4 years, and some even longer [# Perplexity Research].

GAE is associated with very low complication rates. The most common side effects? Temporary bruising or soreness—usually gone in a few days. Unlike surgery, there’s no significant blood loss, no general anesthesia, and no risk of joint implant failure.

That’s why GAE has become the trusted “middle path” for so many people looking to escape knee pain without the risks of surgery.

Real Patient Stories from Michigan

The success of GAE isn’t just in the data—it’s in the stories.

📍 Dave from Flint: “I was taking three pain medications just to get through the day. I had GAE at VIM and within two weeks, I was off all of them. My knee feels fantastic.”

📍 Linda from Lapeer: “I couldn’t go downstairs without stopping. Now I walk without pain. I’m so happy I found this procedure.”

📍 Karen from Owosso: “I was nervous at first, but the doctor explained everything. The procedure was quick, and the results were even better than I hoped.”

These are just a few of the real lives transformed by the Vascular Institute of Michigan’s GAE team—and yours could be next.

Why Choose the Vascular Institute of Michigan?

Vascular Expertise from Cleveland Clinic-Trained Surgeons

GAE is a specialized vascular procedure—and at VIM, you’re treated by true vascular experts. Dr. Mohammed Margni, MD, FACS, trained at the Cleveland Clinic, one of the top hospitals in the nation for vascular surgery.

With board certification, 20+ years of collective vascular experience, and hundreds of successful embolizations, Dr. Margni and his team bring unmatched precision and compassion to every patient. Meet your physicians

Local Convenience in Flint, Lapeer, and Owosso

Why drive hours to Detroit or Ann Arbor when you can get cutting-edge care right here at home?

With comfortable, modern office-based labs in Flint, Lapeer, and Owosso, VIM offers easy scheduling, local access, and same-day discharge for GAE procedures. No hospitals, no parking nightmares, no long waits—just expert care in your community.

High Touch, Insurance-Friendly Care

VIM is proud to accept Medicare, Medicaid, Blue Cross, Priority Health, and most major insurers. In fact, GAE is covered by many plans under interventional radiology or chronic pain management.

And unlike impersonal chains or massive hospitals, we make sure you feel heard. From the moment you walk in, our team provides concierge-style service, tailored to your comfort and questions.

“They listened to me every step of the way.” — Actual VIM patient

Common Questions About GAE Answered

Cost, Coverage, and Candidacy

Is GAE covered by insurance?
✅ Yes. At VIM, most patients pay only their typical co-pays. We handle all prior authorizations and will confirm your benefits before scheduling anything.

What about Medicare?
✅ Absolutely. GAE is covered by traditional Medicare and many Medicare Advantage plans.

Am I a candidate?
✅ If you’ve tried other treatments for knee pain and still struggle with daily pain or stiffness, there’s a good chance you are. The best way to know? Schedule your free consultation.

What If It Doesn’t Work?

GAE has a 70–90% success rate, but like any medical treatment, results can vary. Here’s the good news:

• If you don’t get full relief, GAE doesn’t affect your ability to get a knee replacement later

• You can repeat the procedure or explore other minimally invasive options if needed

• Most patients report significant improvement, even if not complete

And if we find you’re not a good fit for GAE, we’ll be upfront and help you find an alternative that suits your needs.

Can It Be Repeated?

Yes. While GAE typically provides 1–4 years of relief, the procedure is safe to repeat if symptoms return.

Some patients choose to pair GAE with lifestyle improvements—like weight loss or physical therapy—to extend its benefits even further. Think of it as a “reset” button for your knee pain that can be used again if needed.

✅ Ready to Take the Next Step?

Let’s find out if GAE is right for you. Schedule your free, no-obligation consultation with the experts at the Vascular Institute of Michigan, and get on the path to lasting knee pain relief—without surgery.

📞 Call: (810) 535-5555
📍 Or Request Your Appointment Online