Peopleimages (1)

Discover Genicular Artery Embolization in Minneapolis, a non-surgical knee pain treatment. Learn how GAE helps relieve knee osteoarthritis pain without surgery.

  • Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a minimally invasive method to relieve knee pain caused by osteoarthritis.
  • No major surgery, joint replacement, or long recovery time required.
  • The best candidates for this procedure are those with mild to moderate osteoarthritis who have difficulties finding relief from other treatment methods.

GAE in Minneapolis: Non-Surgical Knee Pain Relief

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment that can significantly reduce knee pain from osteoarthritis without the long recovery time associated with knee replacement surgery or total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Minneapolis Vein Center, located in Minneapolis, provides GAE services to relieve knee pain. Find out whether you qualify for GAE by scheduling a consultation with one of our board-certified fellowship-training interventional radiologist.

What Is Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)?

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is an outpatient procedure performed by specialized interventional radiologists. Using a small catheter, the physician targets and blocks abnormal blood vessels that contribute to knee inflammation.

By addressing the root cause of pain, GAE provides meaningful, long-term relief for many patients.

Key Benefits of GAE

  • Minimally invasive, no major incisions 
  • No hospital stay required 
  • Fast recovery—often within days 
  • Reduced need for pain medications 
  • Preserves your natural knee joint 

 

Clinical studies show patients can experience a 40–50% reduction in pain within the first week, with continued improvement lasting one to three years.

Who Is an Ideal Candidate for GAE?

GAE is best for individuals seeking a non-surgical knee pain treatment in Minneapolis who want to stay active without undergoing major surgery.

Patients Who Often Qualify

You could be a candidate for GAE if you:

  • Have been diagnosed with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis
  • Have persistent pain despite taking medications or receiving injections
  • Have difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or exercising
  • Want to delay or avoid knee replacement surgery
  • Are not an ideal candidate for major surgery

 

If you’re searching for GAE doctors in the Twin Cities, a consultation with one of board-certified fellowship-training interventional radiologist can determine if this treatment is right for you. 

Patients Who May Need Other Options

  • Severe, bone-on-bone arthritis
  • Major joint instability
  • Active infection 
  • Certain vascular conditions
  • GAE vs. Knee Replacement Surgery: Key Differences

GAE vs. Knee Replacement Surgery

Many patients exploring alternatives to knee replacement surgery in MN compare GAE to total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)

  • Minimally invasive outpatient procedure
  • Local anesthesia
  • Small puncture site
  • Recovery measured in days
  • Lower complication risk
  • Preserves natural joint

 

Total Knee Replacement (TKA)

  • Major surgery with hospital stay
  • General anesthesia
  • Large incision
  • Months of rehabilitation
  • Higher risk of complications
  • Artificial joint implant

 

Choosing GAE does not eliminate the option of surgery later – it simply offers a less invasive first step.

Why Patients Across Minneapolis Choose Minneapolis Vascular Physicians at Minneapolis Vein Center for GAE

When searching for GAE doctors in the Twin Cities, experience and technology matter.

Minneapolis Vascular Physicians offer:

  • Board-certified, fellowship-trained interventional radiologists 
  • Advanced imaging for precise treatment 
  • Personalized care plans 
  • Convenient Twin Cities location 
  • A long-standing reputation in minimally invasive procedures 

 

Patients across the region trust their team for effective non-surgical knee pain treatment in Minneapolis.

Minneapolis Vein Center has helped patients seeking non-surgical knee pain relief get back on their feet, return to everyday activities, and enjoy a higher quality of life. Call us today to schedule a consultation to determine eligibility.

Photographer: PeopleImages / Shutterstock

Search

Contact Us

Location

Minneapolis Vein Center
2800 Campus Drive, Suite 20
Plymouth, MN 55441
Phone: (763) 398-8710
Fax: (763) 398-8711

Office Hours

Monday – Friday
7:00 am – 5:00 pm

Saturday – Sunday
Closed

Temporary Detour

Hwy. 55 Eastbound between I-494 and Hwy. 169 will be closed for construction from October 7 to October 16.

If you plan on traveling in the area, you can use the following detour:
Southbound I-494 to eastbound I-394 to northbound Hwy 169.

Wishing you safe travels!
The MVC team