Relief for Knee Pain, No Surgery Required
Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) in Florence, AL
If you've been living with chronic knee pain from osteoarthritis and you're not ready for, or not a candidate for, knee replacement surgery, genicular artery embolization for knee pain may offer real relief. So, what is genicular artery embolization? It's a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure, often searched as GAE knee treatment, that targets the abnormal blood vessels that form in an arthritic knee and feed the chronic inflammation causing your pain, without any incisions or hospital stay.
Dr. Naidu, a trusted genicular artery embolization doctor, has built one of the more established GAE treatment programs in the region, and clinical research has shown meaningful results: in a study published by the Society of Interventional Radiology, patients' average pain scores dropped from eight out of ten before treatment to three out of ten within just the first week. One of our own patients put it simply afterward: "It doesn't hurt anymore!"
If knee pain is slowing you down and other treatments haven't helped, request an appointment to find out if you're a candidate.
What to Expect
The Genicular Artery Embolization Procedure
Osteoarthritis causes abnormal, tiny blood vessels to form in the lining of the knee, called the synovium. These vessels feed the chronic inflammation that drives your pain. During GAE, Dr. Naidu inserts a small catheter, usually through the wrist or groin, and guides it using X-ray imaging directly to the arteries supplying that inflamed lining. Tiny particles are then released to reduce blood flow to those specific vessels, which lowers inflammation and, for most patients, significantly reduces pain. The procedure is done with moderate sedation, takes one to two hours, and is performed entirely on an outpatient basis. Most patients resume normal daily activities within a few days.
Are You a Candidate for GAE?
Good candidates for GAE are typically between 40 and 80 years old, have moderate to severe knee pain from osteoarthritis, and have already tried conservative treatments like anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy, or joint injections without lasting relief. GAE is generally not recommended for patients with a current or past history of smoking, advanced arthritis with significant bone deformity, active infection, or those who are good candidates for and ready to proceed with knee replacement. Dr. Naidu will review your imaging and history in detail to determine if you're a fit.
Beyond the Knee
Our GAE program is currently focused entirely on knee osteoarthritis, where we have the most experience and the strongest results. We're actively expanding this technique to treat inflammation-driven pain in other joints, including the shoulder, hip, elbow, foot and ankle, and wrist and hand, but we're not yet performing these procedures. If your pain is in a joint other than your knee, ask Dr. Naidu about your options during a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will GAE completely cure my osteoarthritis?
No. GAE doesn't repair damaged cartilage or reverse osteoarthritis itself. What it does is significantly reduce the inflammation causing your pain, which for many patients means real, lasting relief and improved mobility without surgery. Dr. Naidu will talk with you honestly about what results to expect based on your specific case.
How long do the results of GAE last?
Results vary from patient to patient, but many people experience meaningful pain relief for an extended period, often long enough to delay knee replacement surgery by years. Because GAE addresses inflammation rather than the underlying joint damage, some patients may eventually need additional treatment, which Dr. Naidu will discuss with you as part of your long-term care plan.
Is GAE covered by insurance, and what does GAE treatment cost?
Genicular artery embolization cost varies by plan and is still evolving for this relatively newer procedure. We recommend contacting our office directly or reviewing our Insurance page so we can help you understand your specific coverage before scheduling.
How do I find genicular artery embolization near me?
We evaluate candidates for GAE right here in our Florence office. We also offer online scheduling to make booking easy. Request an appointment and we'll find a time that works. We look forward to seeing you.