New Study Confirms Benefits of Genicular Artery Embolization

As a relatively new treatment option for knee osteoarthritis, many people wonder about the benefits of genicular artery embolization (GAE.) Now, thanks to a study from the Charity University Hospital in Berlin, we have more evidence to support GAE’s ability to provide knee pain relief. Here’s what you need to know.

What is GAE?

GAE is a minimally-invasive procedure performed by the interventional radiologists at the Texas Knee Institute. It relieves arthritis-related knee pain by targeting the genicular arteries surrounding your knee joint with an injection of small particles designed to reduce blood flow to the area. In turn, inflammation is reduced and the destruction of cartilage is slowed down, helping relieve pain while also slowing disease progression.

What are the Benefits of Genicular Artery Embolization?

Clinically, we’ve seen that patients who undergo GAE enjoy knee pain relief with improved mobility and quality of life. And now, according to study results presented at the Radiological Society of North America, we can scientifically quantify the benefits of genicular artery embolization.

For this study, German physicians followed 403 patients between the ages of 40 and 90 who underwent GAE at Charity University Hospital in Berlin. All participants had moderate to severe osteoarthritis of the knee, and hadn’t found relief from more conservative treatment options such as medications and physical therapy. All of the participants underwent technically-successful GAE procedures. And one year later, 87% of participants reported improved quality of life, while 71% reported reduced pain. Best of all, side effects were minimal—no severe complications were reported, and just 18% of participants experienced temporary (and slight) changes in skin coloration, along with mild knee pain, immediately following the procedure.

As a result of these findings, lead study author Dr. Florian Fleckenstein concluded, “GAE can effectively reduce knee pain and improve quality of life early after the treatment, with these benefits being maintained over the long term, especially for people who haven’t had success with other treatments like physical therapy or pain medications. This could potentially offer a new lease on life for many patients who suffer from debilitating pain and mobility issues, caused by osteoarthritis.”

Moreover, Dr. Fleckenstein reported, “GAE has the potential to reduce the need for more invasive surgeries, lower health care costs and significantly improve the quality of life for countless individuals suffering from knee osteoarthritis."

Want to explore the benefits of GAE in Texas and discover whether you’re a candidate for this procedure? We’re here to help you explore your options. Simply reach out to our team to request your consultation request your consultation request your consultation with the team at the Texas Knee Institute.