Medically reviewed by
USA Pain Center Medical Review Team
Interventional radiologists focused on knee arthritis
Date: October 2026
Millions of Americans live with knee osteoarthritis, a condition that can make everyday activities like walking, climbing stairs, and exercising increasingly difficult. While many patients find relief with physical therapy, medications, or injections, those treatments do not always provide lasting results. At the same time, some people are not ready for knee replacement surgery or may not be candidates for the procedure.
A newly published study in Radiology adds to the growing body of evidence supporting genicular artery embolization (GAE), a minimally invasive treatment designed to target inflammation associated with osteoarthritis-related knee pain.
Key Takeaway
Recent research published in Radiology, a journal of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA), demonstrates that genicular artery embolization (GAE) offers long-lasting pain relief and mobility improvements for nearly 200 patients with chronic knee osteoarthritis who did not respond to conservative care. Explore Treatment Options.
Research Spotlight
A recent study published in Radiology found that genicular artery embolization provides meaningful, durable reductions in pain and improvements in mobility for patients with chronic knee osteoarthritis. Researchers analyzed nearly 200 patients and concluded that the procedure offers a safe, effective, minimally invasive alternative for individuals who have not responded to conventional therapies.[1]
Study Highlights Long-Lasting Improvement
Researchers followed nearly 200 patients with chronic knee osteoarthritis who had not responded to conservative treatments such as physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or injections. Participants underwent GAE, a procedure that blocks abnormal blood vessels that contribute to inflammation within the knee joint.
The study found that most patients experienced meaningful reductions in pain and improvements in mobility that were maintained for at least 12 months following treatment. Researchers also reported a strong safety profile, with no moderate or severe procedure-related complications observed.
The findings are notable because they represent one of the largest studies to date evaluating GAE for osteoarthritis-related knee pain.
How Does GAE Work?
Unlike treatments that primarily focus on managing symptoms, GAE directly targets one of the processes believed to contribute to osteoarthritis pain.
As osteoarthritis progresses, abnormal blood vessels can develop around the knee joint. These vessels are often accompanied by nerve growth and inflammatory activity that may worsen pain. During GAE, an interventional specialist threads a small catheter through the bloodstream and delivers microscopic particles into the targeted vessels. Reducing blood flow to these abnormal vessels may decrease inflammation and pain signals originating from the knee.
The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis and typically does not require hospital admission.
Who May Be a Candidate?
GAE may be considered for patients who:
- Have chronic knee pain caused by osteoarthritis
- Continue to have symptoms despite physical therapy, medications, or injections
- Are not ready for knee replacement surgery
- Want to explore minimally invasive treatment options
Not every patient with knee osteoarthritis is an ideal candidate, which is why a comprehensive evaluation is important.
Filling the Treatment Gap
One of the biggest challenges in osteoarthritis care is the gap between conservative treatments and surgery. Many patients reach a point where injections provide diminishing relief, yet they are not ready to undergo joint replacement.
As research continues to expand, GAE is gaining attention as a potential option for patients seeking another path to pain relief. Studies like this help physicians better understand which patients may benefit most from the procedure and how durable those results may be over time.
Learn More About the Research
Read the full press release about the study findings and the latest developments in GAE research.
Knee Pain Evaluation
Explore Minimally Invasive Options for Knee Osteoarthritis.
If conservative treatments have stopped providing sufficient relief and you are looking to avoid or delay joint replacement, a specialist evaluation can help clarify your options.
USA Pain Center specialists utilize advanced imaging and image-guided techniques like genicular artery embolization to help patients manage chronic knee osteoarthritis symptoms effectively.
FAQs About Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)
- Okuno Y, et al. Mid-Term Clinical Outcomes and Safety of Genicular Artery Embolization for Knee Osteoarthritis. Radiology.
Medical disclaimer: USA Pain Center content provides medical education only. It is not a diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Consult a pain management specialist for evaluation.
