Still Struggling With Knee Pain in Northeast Ohio?
Experience Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) — a non-surgical alternative to knee surgery available near you in Cleveland and Akron.
- Avoid painful and expensive knee replacement
- Outpatient procedure lets you recuperate at home
- Trusted physicians deliver this cutting-edge procedure that is minimally-invasive and a true solution for knee osteoarthritis.
- Restores mobility and quality of life
Genicular Artery Embolization is minimally invasive and successfully relieves knee pain
What Is GAE — And How Does It Help Knee Pain?
GAE (Genicular Artery Embolization) is a minimally invasive alternative to knee surgery for chronic knee pain caused by osteoarthritis. It reduces blood flow to inflamed areas in the knee joint, which decreases inflammation and pain, and is performed by our board-certified doctors and vascular specialists.
🏥 GAE is an Outpatient Procedure (no hospital stay)
💉 No General Anesthesia Required
⏱️ Fast Recovery (often within days)
🔒 Proven Safety & Effectiveness
🧑⚕️ Performed by Vascular Specialists
Is the GAE Procedure Right for You?
You may qualify for Genicular Artery Embolization if you:
Have knee osteoarthritis
Experience pain while walking or climbing stairs
Want to avoid knee replacement
Prefer a non-surgical solution
Have had limited success with injections or physical therapy
Serving Northeast Ohio With Vascular Solutions at 3 Convenient Locations
Preferred Vascular Group provides expert Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) care across Northeast Ohio with three convenient locations in Akron, Beachwood, and Westlake. Whether you’re seeking alternatives to knee surgery or want fast relief from chronic knee pain, our board-certified doctors and specialists are close by and ready to help with this proven procedure. Each location offers outpatient GAE treatment featuring short recovery times and no need for surgery.
What Our Patients Say about GAE and Preferred Vascular Group Patient Care
Frequently Asked Questions on the GAE Procedure
What is Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)?
GAE is a minimally invasive procedure and alternative to knee surgery that treats knee pain caused by osteoarthritis. It works by reducing blood flow to the inflamed areas of the knee, which helps decrease pain and improve mobility — without the need for surgery.
How does GAE work?
- Arthritis pain is driven in part by inflamed blood vessels in the knee lining.
- During GAE, we guide a catheter through a pinhole in the skin to the geniculate arteries (the knee’s small arteries) and release microspheres to reduce excess blood flow and inflammation.
- This helps calm the inflammation, pain signals and can improve function.
How do I know if I’m a candidate for GAE?
If you’ve been diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis and are experiencing ongoing pain — especially if surgery isn’t an option for you or you prefer to avoid it — you may be a candidate. Our specialists will review your case and imaging to determine if Genicular Artery Embolization is right for you. Schedule a consultative appointment here.
What are the benefits of GAE?
- As an alternative to knee surgery, GAE is minimally invasive (pinhole access, no
general anesthesia) - Outpatient procedure with same‑day return home
- Pain relief may begin within days to weeks, with continued improvement over
months - Can be repeated if needed; preserves future surgical options
What are the risks?
All procedures have risks, luckily the risks for GAE are minimal. Possible (usually uncommon) risks include: temporary skin bruising, or soreness at the access site, temporary skin color changes around the knee, or bleeding at the access site (rare). Your team takes careful steps to minimize risks and monitor you closely.
Is Genicular Artery Embolization covered by insurance?
Coverage can vary depending on your provider and individual policy. Our team can assist you with verifying your benefits and help you explore financing or payment options if needed.
Will Genicular Artery Embolization work for me?
Most appropriate patients report meaningful pain relief and better function. Results vary by arthritis severity, activity level, and individual healing. We track your progress and adjust your care plan as needed.
As one of the alternatives to knee surgery, how does GAE compare with other options?
- Conservative care: Medications, PT, injections — often first line
- GAE: For persistent pain despite conservative care; non‑surgical
- Surgery (partial/total knee replacement): Effective for advanced OA but often involves hospital stay and longer recovery
What is the recovery time after GAE?
Most patients experience only mild discomfort after the Genicular Artery Embolization and can return to normal activities within a few days. Pain relief typically begins within 1–3 weeks, with continued improvement over time.
Is the GAE procedure painful?
Our Genicular Artery Embolization procedure is performed under local anesthesia and mild sedation. You’ll be awake but relaxed, and most patients report minimal discomfort during or after the procedure.
Where is GAE available in Northeast Ohio?
Preferred Vascular Group offers GAE at multiple convenient locations in Northeast Ohio including Akron, Beachwood, and Westlake. Our board-certified physicians and specialists provide expert care close to home.
How should I prepare for Genicular Artery Embolization with Preferred Vascular Group?
- Medications: We’ll review blood thinners and allergies.
- Food/Drink: Follow our fasting instructions if sedation is planned.
- Ride home: Arrange a driver. Wear loose pants and comfortable shoes.
What are the next steps if I want to pursue GAE?
- Consultation visit: Bring prior imaging reports (if available) and medication list
- Personalized plan: We’ll confirm candidacy and discuss expectations
- Scheduling: Most patients can be scheduled within 1–3 weeks after approval
Don’t Let Knee Pain Slow You Down – GAE May Be Your Solution
Take the first step toward lasting knee pain relief. Our specialists in Akron and the Greater Cleveland area are ready to help — no surgery required.
Read or download a recent article on a successful GAE procedure conducted by Preferred Vascular Group.