If you’re living with chronic knee pain from osteoarthritis, you may have heard about Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) — a minimally invasive treatment that targets the root cause of knee pain by reducing inflammation in the joint. But one of the most common questions patients ask is:
“How long does GAE last?”
The answer is encouraging. GAE is designed to offer long-term relief—often lasting years—not just temporary comfort like injections or pain medication. Let’s explore how it works, what affects its longevity, and what you can expect after treatment.
What Is Genicular Artery Embolization?
GAE is a non-surgical, image-guided procedure that reduces inflammation by blocking the tiny blood vessels (genicular arteries) responsible for supplying excess blood flow to the inflamed areas of the knee joint.
During the procedure, an interventional radiologist inserts a small catheter, typically through the wrist or groin, and releases microscopic particles to limit this abnormal blood flow.
By reducing inflammation, GAE helps:
-
Decrease pain and swelling
-
Improve mobility
-
Delay or prevent the need for knee replacement surgery
The entire procedure usually takes about an hour and requires only a small bandage—no stitches, no hospital stay, and minimal recovery time.
More on Genicular Artery Embolizaton
How Long Does Pain Relief Last After GAE?
Most patients begin to feel relief within two to four weeks after the procedure, as inflammation gradually subsides. Clinical studies and patient outcomes have shown that the benefits of GAE can last for several years:
-
6 months: Significant pain reduction and improved mobility are typically reported.
-
1–2 years: The majority of patients maintain lasting relief and an improved quality of life.
-
3–5 years: Long-term studies show that many patients continue to experience relief, though individual results vary depending on arthritis severity and lifestyle.
While GAE is not a cure for arthritis, it is a durable solution that targets the chronic inflammation driving your pain—offering a much longer duration of comfort than injections, medications, or physical therapy alone.
What Factors Affect How Long GAE Results Last?
Several factors can influence how long your pain relief continues after Genicular Artery Embolization:
-
Severity of Knee Arthritis
Patients with mild to moderate osteoarthritis tend to experience longer-lasting results because there is less structural damage to the joint. -
Activity Level
Maintaining an active lifestyle with low-impact exercises (like swimming, cycling, or walking) helps preserve joint function and prolong GAE results. -
Weight Management
Reducing extra pressure on the knee joints can improve circulation and delay the progression of arthritis. -
Post-Procedure Care
Following your doctor’s recovery plan—including prescribed physical therapy and anti-inflammatory guidance—helps maximize long-term success. -
Underlying Health Conditions
Conditions like diabetes or poor circulation may influence healing time and how long the benefits of GAE last.
How Does GAE Compare to Other Knee Pain Treatments?
Unlike injections or oral pain medications that offer temporary symptom relief, GAE addresses the underlying cause of inflammation within the knee joint.
| Treatment Type | Duration of Relief | Invasiveness | Hospital Stay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corticosteroid Injections | Weeks to months | Minimally invasive | None |
| Hyaluronic Acid Injections | Up to 6 months | Minimally invasive | None |
| Pain Medications | Hours to days | Non-invasive | None |
| Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) | 1–5 years | Minimally invasive | None |
| Knee Replacement Surgery | 10–15 years (implant lifespan) | Highly invasive | Hospital stay required |
For many patients, GAE provides an ideal middle ground—long-term relief without surgery or prolonged downtime.
Is GAE Right for You?
If you’ve tried medications, injections, or physical therapy with little success—and aren’t ready or eligible for knee replacement—GAE may be the solution you’ve been searching for.
At USA Pain Center, our experienced interventional radiologists specialize in performing Genicular Artery Embolization using the latest image-guided techniques. Each patient receives a personalized treatment plan designed to relieve pain, restore mobility, and help delay the need for surgery.
Take the First Step Toward Lasting Knee Pain Relief
Don’t let chronic knee pain limit your lifestyle. With Genicular Artery Embolization, you can move more comfortably and regain control over your daily activities—often with results that last years, not months.
📍 Schedule your consultation at a USA Pain Center near you to learn whether GAE is right for you and discover a future free from constant knee pain.