What is Genicular Artery Embolization?
Knee osteoarthritis is a chronic joint disorder that commonly affects older adults. It is characterized by the gradual degradation of cartilage in the knee joint, causing discomfort, instability, pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.
While there are various treatment options available, such as physical therapy, medications, and injections, some patients may experience persistent pain and disability despite these interventions.
Genicular artery embolization (GAE) is a minimally invasive procedure for treating knee osteoarthritis. This innovative technique aims to alleviate pain and improve knee function in patients who have not responded well to conservative treatment options.
At Texas Knee Institute, our renowned team of vascular and interventional radiologists offers decades of experience performing minimally invasive endovascular interventions to treat chronic medical disorders. Our dedication to patient comfort and safety has made us one of the state's most trusted providers of vascular care services.
Learn more about how genicular artery embolization offers long-term symptom improvement for patients struggling with knee osteoarthritis.
What Does GAE Involve?
GAE is a highly effective surgical alternative for patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis. The procedure involves the selective occlusion of the genicular arteries responsible for supplying blood to the knee joint. By decreasing blood supply to these arteries, GAE reduces blood flow to the painful areas of the knee, thereby decreasing inflammation and relieving pain.
During the procedure, a small catheter is inserted into the femoral artery, typically through a small puncture in the groin area. The interventional radiologist navigates the catheter to the genicular arteries using advanced X-ray imaging techniques. Once in place, tiny embolic particles or coils are injected into these arteries to decrease blood flow to the treatment area, effectively mitigating inflammation, pain, and other distressing symptoms.
GAE is a safe procedure with minimal risks and complications. It is an outpatient treatment, meaning patients can go home on the same day. While local anesthesia is administered to minimize discomfort, there is no major incision, no closing sutures, no general anesthesia, and no need for hospitalization.
Recovery time is short, and most individuals can resume their normal activities within a few days.
How Effective is GAE?
Several studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of GAE in reducing pain and improving knee function in patients with knee osteoarthritis. The procedure has shown promising results in pain reduction, increased mobility, and overall quality of life. However, it is important to note that GAE is not appropriate for everyone and should be carefully evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
While the majority of patients tolerate GAE exceptionally well, potential side effects include the following:
- Mild discoloration at the site of the catheter insertion
- Soreness at the site of the catheter insertion
- Bleeding
- Inflammation
The following exceptionally rare complications include:
- Non-target embolization
- Blood clotting
- Infection
- Nerve damage
- Blood vessel damage
Why Choose GAE?
In addition to pain management and improved quality of life, GAE offers potential benefits in terms of reducing the need for more invasive procedures such as knee replacement surgery.
For patients who are not suitable candidates for surgery or wish to avoid it, GAE can provide a less invasive alternative. By targeting the genicular arteries, GAE can potentially provide long-lasting pain relief without the need for major surgery, thereby avoiding the associated risks and recovery time.
Texas Knee Institute: Offering Patient-Focused Care for Knee Osteoarthritis
Chronic pain can have a profound impact on a person's physical and mental well-being, leading to decreased mobility, reduced participation in activities, and increased reliance on pain medications.
GAE offers a potential solution for patients who have exhausted other treatment options and are seeking to regain mobility.
By reducing or eliminating knee pain, GAE can help patients regain their independence, engage in physical activities, and improve their overall quality of life.
Texas Knee Institute is proud to offer next-generation, innovative solutions to effectively treat knee osteoarthritis. With a strong focus on patient safety, comfort, and overall well-being, we are committed to delivering exceptional care and achieving optimal outcomes for patients seeking freedom from knee pain.
To learn more about genicular artery embolization or to schedule an evaluation, please contact our caring representatives today at 469-341-5997713-575-3686713-575-3686 (Houston) or 469-341-5997 (Dallas).
