Genicular artery embolization (GAE) reduces osteoarthritic knee pain for at least six months in around 85% of patients. This minimally invasive procedure doesn’t replace damaged cartilage or cure arthritis; however, it can lower pain enough to help you move more comfortably and return to activities you like to do.
At Vascular Surgery Associates, LLC, in various Maryland locations, we encourage every patient to view recovery as a partnership. The procedure starts the process, while your daily choices help you make the most of your results.
During the procedure, we guide a small catheter to abnormal blood vessels around the knee. We then deliver tiny particles that reduce excess blood flow and inflammation.
Most patients return home on the same day. You spend time in a recovery area while our team checks the catheter entry site and makes sure you feel alert and comfortable.
You may notice mild soreness, bruising, or swelling near the entry point, which often sits at the groin or wrist. Your knee may also feel sore or stiff for several days, while other people may develop temporary skin discoloration around the treated area.
Follow the discharge instructions we give you, since recommendations can vary based on your access site and health. Arrange for someone to drive you home, and take the rest of the day quietly.
Keep the entry site clean and dry, and follow our instructions about changing or removing the dressing. Avoid baths, swimming pools, and hot tubs until the skin has fully closed.
Don’t lift heavy objects or complete strenuous exercise until we clear you. Many patients need to avoid lifting more than 10 pounds for about a week, especially after groin access. These precautions reduce the risk of bleeding and give the artery time to seal.
Check the area each day and contact us if you notice increasing:
Seek urgent help for heavy bleeding that doesn’t stop with firm pressure.
GAE often reduces pain over several weeks rather than overnight. Rest matters on the first day, but prolonged inactivity can leave your knee stiffer and your muscles weaker. Start with short, gentle walks when we tell you it’s safe. Add distance as your comfort and energy improve.
Choose low-impact activities at first, including:
Don’t rush if you feel better, because a sudden jump in activity may irritate your knee. Use pain and swelling as guides; sharp pain or growing swelling means slow down and contact us if symptoms continue.
Knee pain often causes people to move less for months or years. As a result, the muscles around the knee, hip, and core lose strength. Pain relief gives you a chance to rebuild that support, and a physical therapist can develop a suitable rehabilitation program.
Exercises typically focus on your:
Stronger muscles reduce stress on the knee and help you walk, climb stairs, and rise from a chair more confidently.
Consistency matters more than intensity. Complete your exercises as instructed, and increase the challenge in small steps. Don’t push through sharp pain to make up for missed sessions.
If you carry excess weight, losing some will likely reduce the load on your knees. Wear supportive shoes and adjust activities that trigger pain, particularly twisting, jumping, or running on hard ground.
Use pain medicines only as directed. Don’t stop prescription medications or add anti-inflammatory drugs without speaking with your healthcare provider, especially if you take blood thinners or have kidney, stomach, or heart problems.
Follow-up visits help us check the entry site, track changes in pain and function, and decide when you can expand your activities. Let us know what you can do now that you couldn’t do before, not just how you rate your pain.
At Vascular Surgery Associates, LLC, we want your recovery to lead to meaningful gains in comfort, movement, and independence. Contact us by phone or online today to learn whether GAE and a personalized rehabilitation plan can help you manage osteoarthritis-related knee pain.
