Knee Pain Treatment in Oregon
A Minimally Invasive Option for Chronic Knee Pain
If knee pain is limiting your movement, sleep, or independence, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to live with it. Osteoarthritis is a common cause of chronic knee pain, especially as we age, and it can feel like your options are running out. At Oregon Vascular Specialists, we offer a nonsurgical, outpatient solution designed to reduce pain and help you get back to the activities you enjoy. Our experienced, board-certified vascular specialists are here to guide you with compassion and precision.
What Is Knee Osteoarthritis?
Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint condition where the cartilage in the knee gradually wears away. Without that cushioning, bones rub together, leading to inflammation, stiffness, and pain. Over time, the body forms new blood vessels around the joint to supply the inflamed tissue—this process actually contributes to the pain.
Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a minimally invasive procedure that targets those pain-related blood vessels, reducing inflammation and improving symptoms—without surgery.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Aging (most common over age 50)
- Previous knee injuries or trauma
- Repetitive stress on the joint (sports, work)
- Obesity or excess weight
- Genetics or family history of osteoarthritis
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Poor joint alignment
- Inflammatory conditions
What Happens If It’s Left Untreated
Without treatment, osteoarthritis of the knee can significantly worsen over time. Pain may become constant, joint mobility can decline, and everyday activities like walking or standing can become extremely difficult. This often leads patients to rely heavily on medications or face the possibility of total knee replacement surgery.
How We Diagnose It
At Oregon Vascular Specialists, we begin with a detailed consultation and medical history review. In-office imaging, such as diagnostic ultrasound or X-ray, helps us assess blood flow and the extent of joint degeneration. These tools allow us to determine whether Genicular Artery Embolization is the right fit for your unique situation—all in a comfortable outpatient setting.
Common Symptoms
- Chronic knee pain, especially during or after activity
- Morning stiffness or stiffness after resting
- Swelling around the knee joint
- Clicking, grinding, or popping sounds
- Limited range of motion
- Pain that worsens over time
- Disrupted sleep due to discomfort
- Difficulty standing, walking, or climbing stairs
Treatment Options at OVS
Our team specializes in advanced, image-guided solutions that minimize downtime and avoid the risks of surgery. If you’ve tried conservative care like physical therapy, medications, or injections without relief, we may be able to help.
Minimally Invasive Treatments We Offer
- Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)
A stent-graft is inserted into the aorta to reinforce weak spots and restore safe blood flow.
GAE is a same-day procedure that uses a catheter and imaging guidance to block the small arteries feeding the inflamed knee lining. By reducing blood flow to the area, inflammation and pain are significantly decreased over time—without damaging the joint.
We perform this procedure in our outpatient office-based labs using only a small nick in the skin—no stitches or general anesthesia needed.
What to Expect
1
Consultation
Meet with one of our specialists to discuss your symptoms and imaging results
2
Imaging
Diagnostic studies are performed in-office to confirm candidacy
3
Treatment Plan
GAE is performed under local anesthesia through a pinhole incision
4
Recovery
Most patients return home the same day and resume light activity within 24–48 hours
Comparison
Oregon Vascular Specialists |
Hospital System | |
|---|---|---|
| Minimally Invasive |
Yes
|
Sometimes |
| Same-Day Procedure |
Yes
|
Rarely |
| No General Anesthesia |
Yes
|
Usually not |
| Outpatient Recovery |
Yes
|
Often overnight |
| Expertise in Vascular Conditions |
Yes
|
Mixed |
| Short Wait Times |
Yes
|
Often long |
| Tailored Pain Relief |
Image-guided and targeted
|
Varies |
Why Choose Oregon Vascular Specialists
At OVS, we combine deep expertise in vascular care with a personalized, patient-first approach. Our board-certified physicians are pioneers in minimally invasive therapies designed to restore your quality of life—without the risks of surgery.
Non-Surgical, Image-Guided Relief
GAE is done through a small catheter—no incisions, implants, or hospital stay needed.
Ideal for Patients Avoiding Surgery
If you’re not ready—or eligible—for a joint replacement, GAE may be the right next step.
Focused on Minimizing Downtime
Most patients return to normal routines within days, without long recovery or rehab.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)?
GAE is a nonsurgical treatment that reduces blood flow to inflamed tissue in the knee, helping relieve pain caused by osteoarthritis.
Who is a good candidate for GAE?
You may be a candidate if you have knee pain from osteoarthritis and haven’t found relief from medications, injections, or physical therapy.
Is GAE safe?
Yes. GAE is a low-risk, outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia with minimal downtime.
How long does recovery take?
Most patients resume normal activities within 24–48 hours and notice gradual improvement over several weeks.
Does GAE replace the need for knee surgery?
For many patients, yes. GAE can delay or eliminate the need for knee replacement surgery.
Walk Toward a Life With Less Pain
You don’t have to live with constant knee pain. Our team is here to offer answers, expert care, and proven solutions like GAE to help you reclaim your mobility and quality of life. Getting started is simple—and your consultation is just a click away.