Connect
Genicular Artery Embolization for Knee Pain
I had a TKR three year ago and still have new pain.
I was offered a GAE ( Genicular Artery Embolization)
Does anyone know anything about this
Like
Helpful
HugInterested in more discussions like this? Go to the Joint Replacements Support Group.
Connect
And how are you doing now??
@insicknessandinhealt
Fabulous! I had the procedure in early June and the left knee is doing really well. Thanks for asking.
@zephyr2309
I had the GAE twice in an attempt to cure recurrent hemarthrosis which is internal bleeding into the knee socket, without trauma or apparent cause. Creates painful swelling and inflammation. First GAE helped a little but second GAE did not help at all. I hope you find the best answer soon.
@zephyr2309 were you wanting to avoid a total knee replacement?
I'm so confused and frustrated. I was going to have GAE and a 2nd specialist said to go to a surgeon (meaning the GAE wouldn't help me) As I ws in a 'study' and the procedure would not happen for many months, and being in so much constant pain, I had a TKR. It's the hardest thing I have ever done. I'm now 9 months post surgery and happy and appreciative of how far I've come to be out of that bone on bone pain, but I do have regrets. Perhaps I should have waited for GAE. Perhaps I should have done nanoknee. Perhaps I made the right decision for that moment. May I ask who and where was your GAE done? thank you for your time.
@insicknessandinhealt
Hello - my Physical Therapist told me about the GAE study and I followed up, and subsequently eligible. The PT I’ve worked with off and on seems to focus on knee issues. Yes, I guess I could say I was interested in avoiding TKR, hoping the GAE would be beneficial before my knee got worse (I do have arthritis in both knees). I had the procedure done at UCLA Health with Dr. Padia. TKR is not easy, so I applaud your effort to work through the post TKR rehabilitation process. I’ve had friends who also note it was one of the hardest things they’ve ever done. And we only know what we know and experience in the moment. Take good care.
I'm SO glad for you that it was successful! they had told me they were doing to study to show insurance companies it's success and to get it covered. Did they tell you that also? I am going to a pain clinic today and will ask Dr his opinion on it, and also make appt for consultation for other knee with the Dr Padia group. Wondering it they will take me. I told a friend about it, she also wanted to avoid surgery, and had success with the procedure. She had to lay still for 2 hours afterwards and limit activities the day after. She is also wondering if she will qualify for the study on her other knee, which is now painful. How long was the study for you before you had the actual procedure? thank you so very much for sharing!
@insicknessandinhealt
Yes, I was informed. I think that was the purpose of the study. IDK if they are still enrolling. They needed 100 patients for the study and I was #77, and this was back in May 2025. Because they go through the groin, you have to stay still for those hours after the procedure. I followed Dr. Padias instructions regarding exercise after; my procedure was in June 2025. I have another follow up with him soon. I have even seen improvement with the other knee because its not longer overcompensating for the left knee. If I recall correctly, the research study means I will be followed for a couple of years. I’m assuming they’re reviewing longevity- only my opinion. Again, I also don’t know if they’ve been able to enroll the 100 patients. Cheers!! Be well.