Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a newer treatment aimed at reducing knee pain caused by osteoarthritis by targeting and reducing inflammation. In people with knee osteoarthritis, inflammation in the joint leads to the growth of tiny new blood vessels, called neovessels. These vessels are not normally present in a healthy joint and contribute to ongoing inflammation and pain.

GAE works by selectively injecting tiny particles into specific arteries that supply blood to these abnormal vessels. This process is called embolization, and it temporarily blocks the flow of blood through the neovessels.

Doctors use a special imaging technique called angiography to guide the procedure. This allows them to see the inflamed area and locate the neovessels, which are larger than normal due to the ongoing inflammation—usually about 1–2 millimeters in diameter.

By blocking these abnormal vessels, GAE helps to reduce the number of inflammatory cells and signaling chemicals (called cytokines) that enter the joint through the bloodstream. This decreases the overall inflammation in the area.

Additionally, the growth of pain-sensing nerves, which often occurs alongside these new vessels, may also be reduced. These nerves—called unmyelinated sensory nerves—can worsen pain when they are activated by inflammation. By decreasing both inflammation and nerve growth, GAE may significantly reduce knee pain in people with osteoarthris

The FDA has not currently approved the study device. Patients will undergo 8 visits over a 12 month period. screening, screening 2,treatment, 30 day follow up,90 days,180,270,365 follow up.

Twelve patients with osteoarthritis of the knee will undergo Geniculate Artery Embolization for treatment of knee pain. Prior to the procedure, patients will undergo MRI imaging of the affected knee which will include contrast enhanced images and dynamic contrast enhanced images. The MRI will measure the degree of abnormal blood flow in the synovial lining of the knee joint as well as change in the knee joint structure found in osteoarthritis. Patients will be followed at 1, 6, and 12 months after the procedure, and knee pain as well as medication usage will be assessed at each interval. At the 6-month visit, patients will undergo a second MRI with contrast that will be used to compare the changes in blood flow and knee joint structure.