Knee Artery Embolization

Knee Artery Embolization (GAE) Treatment in Denver

Living with knee osteoarthritis can wear you down. Constant pain, stiffness, and swelling may limit your mobility and take a toll on your daily life. At Ecco Medical in Denver and Pueblo, we specialize in advanced, minimally invasive procedures designed to relieve pain and improve joint function—without the risks or downtime of surgery. One of our leading treatments is Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE), a non-surgical solution for chronic knee pain caused by osteoarthritis.

What is Knee Artery Embolization?

Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee is a progressive condition caused by the breakdown of cartilage in the joint, leading to inflammation, swelling, and chronic pain. As the disease advances, the body forms new blood vessels around the joint, which contribute to inflammation and discomfort. GAE is an osteoarthritis knee treatment that works by reducing this abnormal blood flow, offering long-lasting relief without replacing the joint.

Why GAE is a Breakthrough for Knee Pain

For patients with moderate to severe knee osteoarthritis who are not ready—or not candidates—for knee replacement surgery, GAE offers a powerful alternative.

90%

90% of patients report significant pain reduction

Minimally invasive

Minimally invasive with no large incisions or general anesthesia

Outpatient procedure

Outpatient procedure – go home the same day

Fast recover

Fast recovery – back to normal activities in days

Delays or avoids

Delays or avoids need for total knee replacement

Ideal for patients

Ideal for patients with surgical risks or limited treatment options

What You Need to Know About GAE Knee Treatment

Genicular Artery Embolization targets the small arteries that supply blood to the inflamed tissue in the knee joint. During the procedure, a board-certified interventional radiologist inserts a thin catheter through a tiny incision in the wrist or groin and uses X-ray guidance to deliver microscopic particles to the affected arteries. These particles block abnormal blood flow, reducing inflammation and relieving pain.
GAE is done in our state-of-the-art outpatient vascular center. It is an outpatient procedure that does not require general anesthesia. Instead, we use moderate sedation to keep patients comfortable throughout the short treatment. The entire procedure typically takes 60 to 90 minutes. You’ll be monitored for a short time afterward and go home the same day—no overnight hospital stay needed.
Clinical research has shown that Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a safe and effective treatment for knee osteoarthritis, especially in patients who are not candidates for joint replacement surgery. Studies report significant improvements in pain, mobility, and function, with results lasting 12 months or longer and consistently high patient satisfaction.

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Are You a Candidate For GAE?

You may be a good candidate for Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) if you’ve been diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis and have tried treatments like physical therapy, medications, or injections without lasting relief. If your knee pain is limiting your daily activities or diminishing your quality of life, this osteoarthritis knee treatment may offer a minimally invasive path to relief. Our interventional specialists will carefully evaluate your condition to determine if this treatment is the right fit for you.

Benefits of GAE Knee Treatment

  • Non-surgical, minimally invasive solution
  • Quick recovery with minimal downtime
  • Same-day outpatient procedure
  • Reduced need for pain medications
  • Improves mobility and function
  • Proven success in reducing chronic knee pain

GAE vs. Other Knee Pain Treatments

Treatment Invasiveness Hospital Stay Recovery Time
GAE (Ecco Medical)
Minimally invasive
No
Few days
Knee Replacement
Major surgery
Yes
6-12 weeks
Steroid Injections
Non-surgical
No
Temporary relief
Physical Therapy
Non-invasive
No
Ongoing

Why Choose Ecco Medical?

At Ecco Medical, we specialize in advanced, outpatient treatments for chronic conditions like knee osteoarthritis. With convenient locations in Denver and Pueblo, we make it easier for patients across Colorado to access expert care in a comfortable, non-hospital setting—without the long waits, high costs, or extended recovery times of traditional surgery.

Experienced Specialists

Our board-certified interventional radiologists specialize in treating joint pain through advanced embolization techniques.

Precision Technology

We use high-resolution imaging and microsurgical tools to perform GAE with maximum accuracy and safety.

Whole-Person Approach

We take the time to listen, educate, and build a treatment plan that aligns with your goals.

Move Freely Again with a Trusted Alternative to Knee Replacement

You don’t have to live with constant knee pain, or face surgery to find relief. Ecco Medical, can help you reclaim your mobility and quality of life through innovative, non-surgical options like Genicular Artery Embolization. Ready to find out if GAE is right for you?

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Frequently Asked Questions

Will GAE knee treatment cure my osteoarthritis?
GAE doesn’t reverse cartilage loss, but it significantly reduces the pain and inflammation associated with OA, allowing you to stay active and avoid surgery.
Most patients resume light activity within a few days. Some soreness or stiffness may occur but usually improves quickly with time.
Coverage varies depending on your insurance plan and medical history. Our team will help verify benefits and discuss your options during your consultation.
GAE is ideal for patients with knee osteoarthritis who haven’t found relief from physical therapy, medications, or injections, and want to avoid or delay knee replacement surgery.
Most side effects are mild and temporary, such as knee soreness, bruising at the insertion site, or low-grade fever. Serious complications are rare.