Knee Artery Embolization: How to Avoid Joint Replacement

During the procedure, a catheter is inserted through a small puncture in the femoral artery, and microscopic particles are used to block the small vessels supplying the inflamed tissues inside the knee. As inflammation decreases, the pain subsides.

Patients report significant relief. One woman said after GAE that the effect was comparable to the joint replacement she had on her other leg — but without major surgery. The procedure takes 1–2 hours, is performed under light sedation, and the patient goes home the same day.

Studies show that in 70% of patients, pain is reduced by half or more. The effect can last for several years. Clinical trials are currently underway, and doctors hope that GAE will become a standard option for those who no longer benefit from conservative treatment but for whom surgery is still premature.

Sources:

1. University of Colorado Anschutz School of Medicine. "This emerging treatment is helping people avoid knee replacement surgery." ScienceDaily (June 22, 2026).
2. Casadaban L. et al. (related studies).