Dr. Daniels is a distinguished vascular specialist. His credentials include board certification by the American Board of Radiology and diplomate status with the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine.
Dr. Daniels’ professional journey is marked by collaborations with notable institutions such as Interventional Radiology Associates and appointments at esteemed medical centers, including Fox Chase Cancer Center, Pennsylvania Hospital, Einstein Medical Center, Virtua Health System, Inspira Health System, and Main Line Health.
Optimal Ankle and Foot is proud to offer Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE), a minimally invasive procedure for chronic knee pain due to osteoarthritis. This advanced treatment is now available through our collaboration with Dr. Richard J. Daniels, a board-certified vascular specialist with extensive experience in endovascular procedures.
Genicular artery embolization (GAE) is a minimally invasive procedure used to reduce pain in patients with osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee. It involves blocking abnormal blood vessels supplying the knee joint, which are often associated with inflammation and pain in OA.
GAE is an interventional radiology procedure where a catheter is inserted into the genicular arteries (blood vessels supplying the knee) through a small incision, usually in the groin.
Small particles (embolic agents) are injected through the catheter, partially blocking the blood flow to the inflamed areas. This helps reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with OA.
GAE is often considered for individuals with moderate to severe knee pain due to OA who have not found relief with conservative treatments and are not yet ready for or are not suitable candidates for total knee replacement.
GAE is a minimally invasive procedure with a short recovery time. It offers targeted pain relief without systemic side effects. Studies suggest that GAE can provide pain relief for several months, and in some cases, for a year or more.
Potential risks of GAE include skin ischemia (reduced blood flow to the skin) and other complications associated with catheter-based procedures, according to a study in the Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology (JVIR).
The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia with light sedation. It involves real-time imaging guidance (like fluoroscopy) to ensure accurate targeting of the arteries.
Most patients can resume normal activities within 1–2 weeks.
Dr. Daniels attended Rutgers University in New Jersey, where he progressed to earn his medical degree from Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia. His residency in Radiology at Pennsylvania Hospital in the University of Pennsylvania Health System, where he was Chief Resident, further solidified his expertise. Dr. Daniels also completed an Interventional Radiology/Angiography fellowship at Temple University Hospital.
Postgraduate degree: Temple University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Fellowship: Diagnostic Imaging, Interventional Radiology/Angiography Pennsylvania Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Residency in diagnostic radiology: Lankenau Hospital, Wynnewood, Pennsylvania
Medical degree: Jefferson Medical College; Doctor of Medicine
Bachelor’s degree: Rutgers College; Bachelor of Arts, Psychology
American College of Phlebology
Society of Interventional Radiology
American Roentgen Ray Society
Radiologic Society of North America
International Society of Endovascular Specialists