How to decide between knee embolization (GAE) and knee replacement

Knee embolization (also called genicular artery embolization or GAE) is an FDA-approved, minimally invasive treatment for knee pain that works by decreasing the circulation to the lining of the knee joint. The result is decreased inflammation and pain with an improvement in knee function without surgery. GAE is an option to delay or potentially avoid knee replacement in patients with pain and advanced osteoarthritis. GAE does not cause damage to normal knee structures, and it has no impact on any potential future surgery. Historically, knee replacement was the only treatment option for patients with pain and advanced osteoarthritis. There are major differences between the procedures: