This emerging treatment could help people avoid knee replacement surgery

Genicular artery embolization (GAE) is a new, minimally invasive procedure that could offer a middle ground between conservative treatments and knee replacement surgery for osteoarthritis. The principle of GAE involves blocking tiny blood vessels that are associated with inflammation. This procedure can significantly reduce pain in patients. Some patients report little or no pain after the procedure. Studies suggest that in patients who respond well to the treatment, the benefits may last two to four years.