If you live in Basavanagudi, Jayanagar or anywhere in South Bangalore, you’ve probably seen parents and grandparents hobbling up stairs or avoiding neighbourhood parks because of knee pain. For many women who spend long hours cooking, standing in queues, or climbing in and out of buses, the dull ache becomes a constant companion. Men used to playing cricket on Sunday mornings or taking evening walks through Lalbagh Garden suddenly find themselves sidelined by swelling and stiffness. The thought of major surgery and months of rehabilitation frightens many, especially when they have jobs, families and busy lives.
Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is emerging as a solution that bridges the gap between conservative treatments and knee replacement. Under the care of Dr. Sravan C.P.S, a respected vascular and endovascular surgeon in Basavanagudi, this minimally invasive procedure blocks the tiny vessels that feed inflammation in your knee without touching your bones or ligaments. The result? Less pain, better mobility and a renewed sense of freedom — often within days.
30‑second snapshot
- Procedure in brief: A small catheter is threaded into the genicular arteries and microscopic particles are delivered to reduce blood flow and inflammation. It’s performed under local anesthesia and light sedation, so you’re awake but comfortable. You can usually go home the same day.
- Why patients love it: GAE preserves your natural knee joint. There are no large incisions, stitches or metal implants, and most people return to daily activities the next morning. The benefits can last for years.
- Why choose Dr. Sravan: With years of experience in image‑guided procedures, he tailors treatment to each patient’s condition and lifestyle, whether it’s physical therapy, GAE or, when necessary, surgical referral. His clinic is easily accessible from Lalbagh and Jayanagar and offers compassionate, transparent care.
What is Genicular Artery Embolization?
Your knee joint is nourished by a network of blood vessels called genicular arteries. In osteoarthritis, these vessels become overactive, flooding the area with inflammatory mediators that cause swelling and pain. GAE targets this root problem. Through a tiny incision, usually near your groin or wrist, a fine catheter is navigated under X‑ray guidance to the inflamed vessels. Dr. Sravan then releases tiny, inert particles that block these abnormal branches, starving the inflamed tissue of excess blood. Healthy tissues remain untouched because the particles are small and precisely delivered. The procedure typically takes about an hour. Because the incision is so small, it doesn’t require stitches and there’s minimal bruising. Most patients walk out of the recovery room and are able to go home the same day or after an overnight rest.
Recognising chronic knee pain
Unlike the occasional soreness after a long run or sprain, chronic knee pain persists for months and often worsens with activity. It may feel like a deep ache or burning sensation. You might notice your knee is swollen, warm to the touch, or stiff when you first get up in the morning. Climbing stairs becomes an ordeal, and you avoid squatting or kneeling because it hurts. Some people hear grinding or popping, while others feel their knee giving way without warning. When over‑the‑counter painkillers, physiotherapy and rest don’t offer lasting relief, it’s time to explore more definitive solutions.
Why does chronic knee pain occur?
The most common culprit is osteoarthritis, where the cartilage cushioning the bones wears down over time. Repetitive strain from jobs that involve heavy lifting, prolonged standing or squatting can accelerate this wear. Old injuries from sports or accidents may lead to early degeneration. Being overweight adds extra pressure on the joint, and genetics can make some people more susceptible. Inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout can also inflame the joint lining, causing persistent pain. Whatever the cause, the result is the same: inflammation, swelling and stiffness that gradually limit your mobility and quality of life.
Treatment pathways with Dr. Sravan
Dr. Sravan believes no two knees are alike. Treatment begins with a thorough history, physical examination and imaging (X‑ray or MRI). He then discusses all available options and their pros and cons so you can make an informed decision.
1. Conservative care
Before considering any procedure, most patients try non‑surgical therapies. These include physiotherapy to strengthen the muscles around the knee, weight management to reduce stress on the joint, anti‑inflammatory medications, and injections such as corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid. For some, platelet‑rich plasma (PRP) injections may help. While these treatments can provide temporary relief, they do not stop the underlying inflammatory cycle and often need to be repeated. When they no longer suffice, GAE offers the next step without the risks of major surgery.
2. Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)
GAE stands out because it targets the pain at its source. It does not remove bone or cartilage, nor does it involve large cuts. By blocking overactive vessels, it reduces the swelling that causes pain. Patients typically report a decrease in pain within a week and continue to improve over the following months. One of the most appealing aspects is the minimal downtime — you can usually walk unaided within hours and return to work or household tasks the very next day. This makes GAE attractive for busy professionals, caregivers and anyone who can’t afford a lengthy recovery.
What about cost? Compared to knee replacement, GAE is generally more affordable. Prices vary depending on hospital facilities and the complexity of your case, but most centres in India quote fees starting around ₹70,000 and going up to about ₹3 lakh. Dr. Sravan’s team will provide a clear estimate after assessing your specific needs and factoring in any insurance coverage.
3. Surgical solutions
For advanced arthritis where the knee joint is severely deformed or bone is completely worn out, total knee replacement remains the gold standard. It involves replacing the damaged joint surfaces with metal and plastic components. Recovery includes hospital stay and months of physiotherapy. Dr. Sravan collaborates closely with orthopaedic surgeons and will refer you if surgery is your best option. Importantly, undergoing GAE does not prevent you from having a knee replacement in the future.
How to keep your knees healthy
A few simple lifestyle changes can slow the progression of arthritis and keep your knees stronger for longer:
- Keep moving: Low‑impact activities like walking, cycling or swimming improve joint health without overloading it. Regular stretches keep your muscles flexible.
- Mind your weight: Every extra kilogram puts additional force on your knees. Losing even a few kilos can reduce pain and delay disease progression.
- Choose anti‑inflammatory foods: Incorporate colourful fruits and vegetables, turmeric, ginger, fatty fish and nuts into your diet. Limit sugar and processed foods that fuel inflammation.
- Protect your joints: If your work involves lifting, use proper form. Avoid deep squats and high‑impact sports unless advised by your doctor.
- Give up smoking: Smoking impairs blood flow and slows tissue healing. Quitting benefits not only your heart and lungs but also your joints.
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Schedule regular check‑ups: If knee pain is impacting your daily life, early evaluation by a specialist can help you avoid surgery later on.
When to book a consultation with Dr. Sravan
- Your knee pain persists beyond three months despite medicines and physiotherapy.
- You’re missing work, social activities or sleep because of knee discomfort.
- You’re told you’re too young or medically unfit for knee replacement but want lasting relief.
- You rely on repeated steroid injections or painkillers to get through the day.
- You want to explore a minimally invasive alternative that preserves your natural joint.
Dr. Sravan’s clinic in Basavanagudi welcomes patients from across Bangalore. With an affordable OPD fee of ₹800, you receive a personalised assessment, transparent advice and access to state‑of‑the‑art care.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I go home the same day after GAE?
Most patients can go home a few hours after the procedure. Some prefer staying overnight for observation, but hospitalisation is usually not necessary. - Will GAE cure my arthritis?
GAE relieves pain by reducing inflammation. It does not regenerate cartilage but can significantly delay the need for surgery. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle helps prolong its benefits. - Are there risks or side effects?
Minor bruising or discomfort at the puncture site is common. Serious complications like infection or bleeding are rare when the procedure is performed by an experienced doctor. - How soon will I feel better?
Many patients notice improvement within a week. Pain relief often continues to increase over the next two to three months as the inflammation subsides. - Am I still eligible for knee replacement later?
Yes. GAE does not interfere with future surgical options. In fact, by postponing surgery, you may be able to preserve your joint longer.
Ready to take the next step?
Imagine waking up without dread at every stair or walk in Basavanagudi Market without your knee slowing you down. Thousands of Bangaloreans are finding freedom from chronic knee pain through Genicular Artery Embolization, and you could be next. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Sravan C.P.S today. Let us help you reclaim your mobility and live without knee pain interfering with your life.