image-guided procedures,
no major surgery
faster recovery than traditional
joint surgery, in most cases
outpatient care with
local anesthesia & light sedation
Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)
Osteoarthritis can cause chronic knee pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility as the cartilage and tissues within the joint change over time. GAE targets abnormal blood vessels around the knee that are associated with inflammation and pain.
Frozen Shoulder Embolization (FSE/ACE)
Frozen shoulder, also called adhesive capsulitis, can cause significant shoulder stiffness, pain, and difficulty reaching or moving the arm. FSE targets abnormal blood flow associated with inflammation around the shoulder to help reduce pain and improve mobility.
Plantar Fasciitis Embolization (PFE)
Chronic plantar fasciitis can cause persistent heel pain that makes walking, exercising, or simply standing uncomfortable. PFE targets abnormal blood vessels associated with inflammation around the plantar fascia to help reduce chronic heel pain.
Transarterial elbow embolization (TAE)
Repetitive use can irritate or damage the tendons around the elbow, causing persistent pain with gripping, lifting, or everyday movements. TAE targets abnormal microvessels associated with tendon inflammation in conditions such as golfer's elbow and tennis elbow.
Our interventional radiologists use minimally invasive embolization techniques to target abnormal blood vessels associated with chronic inflammation and pain.
Advanced imaging allows your physician to see the blood vessels being treated and precisely guide the catheter to the intended treatment area.
Joint embolization is performed through a small catheter access point rather than through open surgery or joint replacement.
Your diagnosis, symptoms, previous treatments, overall health, and goals are all considered when determining whether embolization may be appropriate.
Joint embolization procedures are performed in an outpatient setting, helping minimize the disruption to your schedule and recovery.
The goal isn't simply to reduce a pain score. It's to help you move more comfortably and get back to the activities that matter to you.
3225 Cumberland Blvd. Southeast
Suite 520
Atlanta, GA 30339
1975 Lakeside Pkwy
Suite 300
Tucker, GA 30084
1035 Southcrest Dr.
Suite 220 + 250
Stockbridge, GA 30281
Joint embolization is a minimally invasive treatment that reduces abnormal blood flow to areas associated with chronic inflammation and pain. A physician uses image guidance to navigate a small catheter to the targeted blood vessels and delivers tiny embolic materials to reduce that blood flow.
Different types of embolization are used for different conditions, including GAE for knee osteoarthritis, FSE/ACE for frozen shoulder, PFE for plantar fasciitis, and TAE for certain chronic elbow conditions like Golfer's Elbow and Tennis Elbow.
Georgia Endovascular currently offers embolization treatments for several chronic pain conditions, including:
The appropriate treatment depends on your diagnosis and individual circumstances.
Some chronic musculoskeletal conditions are associated with inflammation and abnormal blood vessel growth around the affected tissue. Embolization reduces blood flow through selected abnormal vessels, which can decrease inflammation and, in turn, help reduce pain.
No. Embolization is a minimally invasive, catheter-based procedure rather than open surgery. A small access point is used to introduce the catheter, and there is no need to surgically open or replace the joint.
Candidates vary depending on the condition being treated. Generally, embolization may be considered for patients with a confirmed diagnosis who continue to experience symptoms despite conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medication, activity modification, bracing, or injections.
Your physician will evaluate your medical history, imaging, symptoms, and previous treatments before recommending a procedure.
Recovery depends on the condition treated and the individual patient. Many patients can return to light activities within a few days, while improvements in pain and mobility may continue over the following weeks as inflammation decreases.
Your physician will provide specific activity and recovery instructions based on your procedure.
For some patients, embolization may provide a nonsurgical option for managing chronic pain and may help delay the need for more invasive treatment. However, it does not repair or replace damaged cartilage, and it is not appropriate for every patient.
Your physician can help you understand whether embolization is a reasonable option based on your condition and treatment history.
Insurance coverage varies depending on the procedure, diagnosis, medical-necessity requirements, and individual health plan. Georgia Endovascular accepts Medicare and many major insurance plans. Our team can help verify your benefits and explain your expected coverage.
Scheduling
Please contact our dedicated specialists to schedule a consultation today.
