At IRCC Pakistan, GAE is performed by specialist interventional radiologists using the same advanced embolization techniques used across a range of other conditions including Uterine Fibroid Embolization and Prostate Artery Embolization demonstrating the proven versatility and safety of embolization in modern medicine.
GAE is done by an Interventional Radiologist under imaging guidance. A small tube (catheter) is inserted through a tiny puncture, usually in the groin or wrist, and guided to the arteries supplying the knee. Tiny particles are then injected to reduce excess blood flow causing inflammation and pain. The procedure is typically done under local anaesthesia, and patients usually go home the same day.
At IRCC Pakistan, our experienced Interventional Radiology team provides advanced, image-guided GAE treatment for chronic knee pain. We focus on precise treatment, minimal discomfort, quick recovery, and improved mobility — helping you return to daily activities with less pain and without major surgery.
Our musculoskeletal interventional services also include Plantar Fasciitis Treatment, Tenosynovitis Treatment, and Radiofrequency Ablation of Osteoid Osteoma providing comprehensive minimally invasive care for musculoskeletal pain conditions.
Chronic knee pain is most commonly caused by osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint condition in which the cartilage protecting the knee joint gradually breaks down. As cartilage wears away, abnormal new blood vessels grow into the joint lining (synovium), triggering persistent inflammation, swelling, and pain.
Other causes of chronic knee pain include:
Patients experiencing musculoskeletal pain in other areas may also benefit from related minimally invasive treatments at IRCC Pakistan such as Plantar Fasciitis Treatment and Tenosynovitis Treatment.
I was facing severe fibroid symptoms that were affecting my daily life. After undergoing Uterine Fibroid Embolization, my condition improved remarkably without surgery. The procedure was comfortable, and recovery was very quick. I truly appreciate the care and professionalism of the medical team.
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I had been dealing with discomfort due to varicocele for a long time. The embolization procedure was simple and minimally invasive, and I experienced relief within a short period. The doctors explained everything clearly and made the entire process stress-free. Highly satisfied with the results.
I was worried about thyroid treatment options until I learned about Radiofrequency Ablation. The procedure was safe, painless, and required no surgery. My symptoms improved significantly, and recovery was smooth. I highly recommend this treatment and the medical team.
My leg pain and visible veins were getting worse, but Varicose Vein Ablation completely changed my condition. The treatment was quick, and I was able to walk normally the same day. Excellent experience and very professional medical care.
GAE is a minimally invasive, non-surgical procedure in which an interventional radiologist uses tiny embolic particles to block abnormal blood vessels in the knee that are causing chronic inflammation and pain particularly due to osteoarthritis. It is performed under local anesthesia with no incisions and no hospital stay required.
No. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia so you will feel little to no pain during treatment. Mild soreness at the catheter entry site and temporary knee warmth may be experienced for 1–2 days after, which resolves quickly on its own.
GAE typically takes 60–90 minutes. It is an outpatient procedure patients go home the same day without requiring hospital admission.
Most patients begin experiencing gradual pain reduction within 2–6 weeks after the procedure. Maximum pain relief and improvement in mobility is typically achieved at 3–6 months. Combining GAE with physiotherapy can further enhance and speed up recovery.
GAE provides significant and lasting pain relief for most patients. However, as osteoarthritis is a progressive condition, some patients may require repeat treatment over time. GAE is particularly effective as a strategy to delay or avoid knee replacement surgery for as long as possible.
Knee replacement is a major surgical procedure requiring general anesthesia, hospital admission, and months of recovery. GAE requires no surgery, no general anesthesia, no hospital stay, and patients return to light activities within 1–2 days. GAE is ideal for patients who want to avoid or delay surgery.
For patients with mild to moderate osteoarthritis, GAE can provide sufficient long-term relief and significantly delay the need for knee replacement. For advanced osteoarthritis with severe joint damage, knee replacement may eventually be required but GAE can provide meaningful relief in the meantime.
Steroid injections and physiotherapy are often the first line of treatment for knee pain. GAE is recommended when these conservative treatments have failed to provide adequate relief. GAE addresses the root cause of inflammation at the vascular level offering more durable results than repeated steroid injections.
GAE may not be suitable for patients with severe end-stage osteoarthritis, active knee infection, severe peripheral vascular disease, or certain allergies to contrast dye. A thorough evaluation by our IRCC interventional radiologist will determine your suitability.
Yes. IRCC Pakistan offers GAE for chronic knee pain performed by expert interventional radiologists. Book an appointment today to find out if GAE is the right treatment for your knee pain.
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