🏆 Our expertise
Our department was one of the first centres in France to offer this innovative technique for chronic joint pain resistant to medical treatment.
❓ What is genicular artery embolization?
Genicular artery embolization (GAE) is an interventional radiology technique that selectively reduces the abnormal blood supply to the inflamed synovial membrane of the knee. It is performed under fluoroscopic guidance, without surgery, through a catheter introduced via a small skin puncture at the wrist or groin.
The technique is particularly indicated for inflammatory knee osteoarthritis (gonarthrosis), where a hypertrophied, hypervascular synovial membrane is the primary source of pain. It is also effective for inflammatory shoulder (frozen shoulder) and other joint conditions.
💡 Why consider GAE?
- Durable relief of chronic joint pain resistant to steroid injections
- Effective alternative to repeated intra-articular corticosteroid injections
- May delay or avoid joint replacement surgery
- Minimally invasive, day case, no scar
- Evidence-based: published in international peer-reviewed literature for gonarthrosis, frozen shoulder and other arthropathies
🔬 How does the procedure work?
Pre-procedure consultation — review of imaging (X-ray + MRI), pain scoring, WOMAC questionnaire
Outpatient admission — local anaesthesia at the wrist (preferred access for knee GAE)
Arteriography — the genicular arteries supplying the synovium are identified under fluoroscopy
Selective embolization — calibrated microspheres (75–150 µm) are injected through a microcatheter
Discharge 2–4 hours later — pain relief typically begins within 1–4 weeks
❓ Frequently asked questions
How long does pain relief last?
Published data show sustained pain relief at 12 months in approximately 70–80% of patients. The procedure can be repeated if needed.
Can GAE be performed if I have already had knee surgery?
Yes. GAE can be considered after previous arthroscopy or partial meniscectomy. Prior knee replacement is not a contraindication, provided there is inflammatory pain from residual synovitis.
Is GAE covered by French health insurance?
At Cochin Hospital AP-HP, the procedure is covered by Assurance Maladie with no extra fees. Some cases may be included in a research protocol.
📄 Patient information leaflet: Download PDF →
✅ Covered by French health insurance (Assurance Maladie). No extra fees at Cochin Hospital AP-HP.