GAE for Knee Pain
All Services

GAE for Knee Pain

Minimally invasive relief for chronic knee pain and arthritis without surgery in Forest Hills, Queens

About GAE for Knee Pain

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a groundbreaking minimally invasive procedure that provides lasting relief from chronic knee pain caused by osteoarthritis. At M&S Vascular and Orthopedic Group in Forest Hills, Queens, Dr. Amir Salem performs GAE through a tiny incision — no larger than a grain of rice — to reduce inflammation in the knee joint by blocking the small arteries that feed the inflamed tissue. Unlike knee replacement surgery, GAE requires no general anesthesia, no hospital stay, and no lengthy recovery. Most patients in the Forest Hills and Queens area return to their daily activities within days, not months. This procedure is especially well-suited for patients who may not be candidates for traditional knee replacement due to age, health conditions, or personal preference. Clinical studies show 70-90% pain reduction with benefits lasting up to 24 months.

What to Expect

During your GAE procedure, you will be comfortably sedated with local anesthesia. Your interventional radiologist will make a small puncture, typically in the wrist or groin, and guide a thin catheter to the arteries surrounding your knee using real-time imaging. Tiny particles are then delivered to reduce blood flow to the inflamed tissue. The entire procedure takes approximately one to two hours. Most patients go home the same day and experience noticeable pain relief within the first few weeks.

Who Is This For?

GAE is ideal for adults over 50 experiencing chronic knee pain from osteoarthritis who have not found lasting relief from medications, injections, or physical therapy — and who want to avoid or delay knee replacement surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is GAE different from knee replacement surgery?
GAE is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure that requires only a tiny puncture and local anesthesia, whereas knee replacement is a major surgery requiring general anesthesia, hospitalization, and months of rehabilitation. GAE targets the inflammation causing your pain rather than replacing the joint itself.
How long does pain relief from GAE last?
Clinical studies show that most patients experience significant pain relief lasting two years or more. Some patients report continued improvement over time as inflammation decreases. Results vary by individual, and your doctor will discuss realistic expectations during your consultation.
Is GAE covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by insurance plan. M&S Vascular and Orthopedic Group in Forest Hills accepts most major insurance providers and Medicare. Our team will verify your benefits and discuss any out-of-pocket costs before scheduling your procedure. Call (718) 897-2228 to check your coverage.
What is the recovery time after GAE?
Most patients return to normal daily activities within one to three days. You may experience mild soreness or swelling around the knee for a short period. Unlike knee replacement, there is no need for inpatient rehabilitation or extended physical therapy.
Am I a candidate for GAE if I have other health conditions?
GAE is often a good option for patients who are not ideal candidates for surgery due to heart disease, diabetes, or other conditions. During your initial consultation, our team will review your complete medical history to determine whether GAE is right for you.

Schedule an Appointment

Our board-certified providers are ready to help. Book online or call us today.

Book Now: (718) 897-2228(718) 897-2228

Available at our locations:

Forest Hills, Queens · Great Neck, Long Island

Related Services

Interventional Radiology
Interventional Radiology
Pain Management
Pain Management
Physical Therapy
Physical Therapy
Orthopedic Surgery
Orthopedic Surgery

Take the Next Step

Schedule your gae for knee pain appointment with $M&S Vascular and Orthopedic Group P.C. today.

Book Now: (718) 897-2228(718) 897-2228