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By The Vein Center of North Florida
Chronic knee pain affects millions of Americans, and for many, it becomes a daily battle that limits mobility, disrupts sleep, and diminishes quality of life. For patients who haven’t found lasting relief through physical therapy, medications, or injections — and who aren’t ready for or don’t qualify for knee replacement surgery — there’s now a promising minimally invasive option available right here in North Florida. The Vein Center of North Florida is proud to offer Genicular Artery Embolization, or GAE, a cutting-edge procedure that is transforming the way knee osteoarthritis pain is treated.
What Is Genicular Artery Embolization?
Genicular Artery Embolization is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure performed by interventional specialists to reduce chronic knee pain caused by osteoarthritis. The genicular arteries are a network of small blood vessels that supply the lining of the knee joint. In patients with knee osteoarthritis, these vessels can become abnormally enlarged, contributing to increased blood flow to inflamed synovial tissue — which in turn fuels pain and swelling.
During a GAE procedure, a physician inserts a tiny catheter through a small nick in the skin, typically at the wrist or groin. Using real-time X-ray imaging, the catheter is guided precisely to the abnormal genicular arteries. Tiny microspheres — smaller than a grain of sand — are then injected to partially block the blood supply to the inflamed tissue. By reducing that abnormal blood flow, GAE decreases inflammation and, with it, pain.
The entire procedure typically takes one to two hours, requires only local anesthesia and mild sedation, and is performed on an outpatient basis. Most patients go home the same day.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
GAE is designed for patients who experience moderate to severe knee pain due to osteoarthritis and have not responded adequately to conservative treatments such as anti-inflammatory medications, cortisone injections, or physical therapy. Ideal candidates are generally not ready for — or wish to avoid — total knee replacement surgery. Patients with significant joint destruction or other underlying conditions may not be suitable, which is why a thorough consultation with the team at the Vein Center of North Florida is an essential first step.
What to Expect After the Procedure
One of the most appealing aspects of GAE is its recovery profile. Because it is minimally invasive, patients experience significantly less downtime compared to surgical alternatives. Most individuals can resume light activities within a day or two. Clinical studies have shown that many patients begin to notice meaningful pain reduction within weeks of the procedure, with continued improvement over the following months.
Side effects are generally mild and may include temporary soreness or bruising at the catheter insertion site. Serious complications are rare when the procedure is performed by an experienced, board-certified interventional specialist.
Why Choose the Vein Center of North Florida?
At the Vein Center of North Florida, patient-centered care and clinical excellence go hand in hand. Our experienced team of interventional specialists uses the latest imaging technology and evidence-based techniques to deliver safe, effective outcomes. We understand that living with chronic knee pain is more than a physical challenge — it affects your work, relationships, and overall well-being.
If you or a loved one is struggling with knee osteoarthritis pain and seeking alternatives to surgery, Genicular Artery Embolization may be the solution you’ve been looking for. Contact the Vein Center of North Florida today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a more active, pain-free life.
The Leaders in Comprehensive Vein Care
Ravi Chandra, MD, FRCS
Ocala’s leading vascular surgeon, Dr. Ravi Chandra, is the only local surgeon certified by the American Board of Surgery, the American Board of Phlebology, and the American Board of Vascular Medicine as a diplomat in Endo-Vascular medicine. Dr. Ravi Chandra leads a team of medical professionals who take a personalized approach with each patient. The Vein Center of North Florida’s staff takes their time to listen to patient concerns and develop a customized treatment plan to address each patient’s medical concerns. Our goal is to perform the safest and least invasive procedure possible and get you back to living life at its fullest!
Patricia D. Hurst, ARNP-BC
In addition to our physician, physician assistants and nurse practitioners, we also have two full-time RVTs (certified vascular techs) to serve you. The Vein Center of North Florida is International Accreditation Commission (IAC) accredited for vascular testing. The IAC develops standards for evaluating quality of care and provides peer review processes. Maintaining IAC accreditation is our way of pursuing the highest level of excellence in patient care.
The Vein Center of North Florida:
Your Partner in DVT Management
The Vein Centern of North Florida
1920 SW 20th Place, Suite #201
Ocala, Florida 34474
352-237-1820
www.veincenternorthflorida.com
