A Non-Surgical Option for Chronic Knee Pain at Preferred Vascular Group
If you suffer from ongoing knee pain due to osteoarthritis and want to avoid surgery, Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) may be the relief you’ve been looking for. This minimally invasive procedure is now available right here in Cleveland, Ohio at Preferred Vascular Group, where our interventional specialists help patients reduce pain and improve mobility—without a knee replacement.
GAE is an outpatient, image-guided procedure designed to treat chronic knee pain caused by osteoarthritis (OA). The procedure targets the genicular arteries, which supply blood to the lining of the knee joint. When these arteries are overactive, they fuel inflammation and pain. GAE works by reducing that blood flow, easing inflammation, and helping you get back to daily life—without major surgery.
GAE may be right for you if:
You have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis of the knee
Conservative treatments (like physical therapy, NSAIDs, or injections) haven’t provided lasting relief
You are not a candidate for or want to delay total knee replacement
You want to stay active without a long surgical recovery
If you live in Cleveland or the surrounding area and suffer from ongoing knee pain, schedule a consultation with our team to find out if GAE is a fit for your condition.
Learn more about who makes a good candidate for GAE in Ohio.
Patients who benefit from GAE often experience:
Persistent knee pain that limits activity
Swelling or inflammation around the knee
Stiffness or loss of motion
Difficulty walking or climbing stairs
Pain that interrupts sleep or impacts quality of life
Our Cleveland-based vascular team will start with a full assessment, including:
Imaging (MRI, X-ray, or ultrasound)
Review of medical history and prior treatments
Physical evaluation and personalized care plan
Performed in one of our outpatient centers in the Cleveland area
A catheter is inserted through a small incision in the groin or wrist
The catheter is guided to the genicular arteries using imaging
Microscopic particles are injected to reduce abnormal blood flow to the inflamed joint lining
Most patients return home the same day
Light activity is encouraged within 24–48 hours
Full results may develop over several weeks
GAE offers several important advantages:
No surgery – Avoid joint replacement and extended recovery
Quick recovery – Return to daily activities faster
Joint-preserving – Helps delay or eliminate the need for surgery
Outpatient procedure – No hospital stay required
Significant pain relief – Many patients report relief within weeks
Most Cleveland patients report improvement in pain and mobility within 2–4 weeks
Continued improvement often occurs over 3–6 months
Effects typically last 12 months or longer
Our team schedules follow-ups to monitor your progress
GAE is considered very safe when performed by trained specialists like the team at Preferred Vascular Group. Risks are minimal and may include:
Bruising or soreness at the catheter site
Mild swelling or discomfort in the knee
Very rare risk of non-target embolization
Temporary skin discoloration
Our Cleveland office follows strict safety protocols and will walk you through everything before the procedure.
| Factor | GAE | Knee Replacement |
|---|---|---|
| Invasiveness | Minimally invasive | Major surgery |
| Recovery Time | A few days | Several months |
| Hospital Stay | None | Required |
| Joint Impact | Preserved | Removed and replaced |
| Ideal For | Mild to moderate OA | Severe, end-stage OA |
For many patients in Northeast Ohio, GAE offers a chance to stay active and delay or avoid joint replacement surgery.
Patients throughout Cleveland, Akron, Beachwood, Munroe Falls, and the surrounding area trust Preferred Vascular Group for:
Board-certified interventional providers
State-of-the-art vascular labs and technology
Collaborative approach with orthopedic and pain specialists
Convenient location and outpatient care model
Compassionate, personalized service
We take time to explain your options, answer your questions, and provide the best possible outcome.
How long do results from GAE last?
Most patients experience relief for at least 12 months. Some see lasting results for years.
Is the procedure painful?
Patients typically feel only mild discomfort during the procedure, which is performed under local anesthesia and light sedation.
Is GAE covered by insurance in Ohio?
Some insurance plans may cover GAE depending on your policy. Our Cleveland office staff will help verify coverage and explain any costs up front.
How do I know if I’m a good candidate?
If you have chronic knee pain due to osteoarthritis and haven’t responded to other treatments, GAE could be a great option. Schedule a consultation with our Cleveland team to find out.
Don’t let chronic knee pain hold you back. If you live in the Cleveland area and want a non-surgical, low-risk solution for osteoarthritis-related pain, Genicular Artery Embolization could be right for you.
Contact one of our offices today!
23709 Center Ridge Road
Suite 101
Westlake, OH 44145
P: 216.516.8401
