Knee pain can be a difficult and limiting condition, especially for active people. Unfortunately, it is increasingly common in our rapidly aging population. Oftentimes the only option available to relieve knee pain has been total knee replacement surgery, an invasive, expensive procedure with a long recovery period. Fortunately, there is now relief that does not require surgery — genicular artery embolization (GAE). GAE is an effective minimally-invasive way to address osteoarthritis and reduce or even eliminate chronic knee pain without resorting to more drastic actions such as full joint replacement surgery.
Introducing Genicular Artery Embolization as an Alternative to Knee Surgery
For many people with osteoarthritis, knee replacement surgery can provide some relief from pain and disability. However, an alternative procedure is becoming increasingly popular: genicular artery embolization. This minimally invasive procedure has several advantages over total knee replacement – it’s non-surgical, and it’s effective at reducing pain and improving mobility. Plus, the procedure is non-invasive and there is less chance of complications compared to a traditional knee replacement. By introducing genicular artery embolization as an alternative to knee surgery, many patients can benefit from a quick and effective solution that will reduce pain and improve their quality of life without resorting to costly surgery with a long recovery period.
Understanding Osteoarthritis and the Pain It Causes
Osteoarthritis, a painful and degenerative joint disorder, affects millions of people every day. For many, finding reliable relief from this disabling condition seems like an impossible task – until now. Advances in modern medicine have made it so that sufferers of this disease don’t have to live with aching limbs for the rest of their lives. The minimally-invasive genicular artery embolization (GAE) procedure offers a practical alternative to total knee replacement; offering greater precision and anesthesia options to address chronic knee pain caused by osteoarthritis.
What is Genicular Artery Embolization and How Does it Help with Knee Pain?
Genicular Artery Embolization is a safe and effective pain relief procedure used to treat knee pain from osteoarthritis. The procedure involves the injection of an embolic agent into specific genicular arteries around the knee. Recently, medical professionals have been studying the long-term benefits of this minimally invasive technique compared to traditional treatments, such as total knee replacement surgery. Tested and proven successful, it has become an increasingly popular choice for relieving pain caused by arthritis in the knees with fewer risks and much less downtime than traditional surgery. Patients often report experiencing significant improvements in mobility, function, and quality of life after undergoing genicular artery embolization treatment.
Benefits of Genicular Artery Embolization Over Total Knee Replacement Surgery
Genicular Artery Embolization is becoming increasingly popular as an effective alternative to total knee replacement surgery for addressing osteoarthritis. This minimally invasive procedure is less expensive and typically covered by insurance, unlike some forms of knee replacement surgery. Additionally, patients can expect a much faster recovery time after completion of the procedure, and studies have shown it to be safer than more traditional approaches. With its relative affordability, improved safety profile, quick recovery time and minimal invasiveness, Genicular Artery Embolization clearly has many advantages when compared to more invasive alternatives, such as total knee replacement surgery in treating advanced levels of osteoarthritis.
The Recovery Process After Genicular Artery Embolization
The recovery time following genicular artery embolization is minimal compared to traditional total knee replacement surgery. Typically within a couple of days, patients who have undergone this procedure are able to resume their normal activities without the need for extended rest or rehabilitation. Patients report decreased pain and improved mobility after the procedure, with even greater pain relief and better range of motion gradually increasing week to week. The amount of discomfort experienced varies from patient to patient, but it typically does not require more than over-the-counter pain medications for relief. After a relatively minimal amount of recovery time, patients can expect to experience significantly less pain and an improved quality of life from genicular artery embolization versus total knee replacement surgery.
After learning about the benefits of Genicular Artery Embolization and comparing it to the risks and side effects of a total knee replacement, you may have a better understanding of which procedure would be best for you. GAE can provide long-term relief for those who are suffering from osteoarthritis without having to go through surgery and a major recovery period. Instead, the GAE procedure can diagnose and treat your knee pain in one setting, allowing you to start feeling better in no time.
If you’re interested in learning more about GAE and determining whether you might be a qualifying candidate, schedule a consultation with our knowledgeable staff today!
Frequently Asked Questions
GAE is a safe and effective procedure for reducing knee pain in patients with OA. It is a good option for patients who have failed to respond to other treatments, such as physical therapy, medication, and injections. Clinical studies and reports suggest that GAE provides significant pain relief and functional improvement for a majority of patients. As with any medical procedure, it’s important to discuss expectations and course of action with a qualified healthcare provider. Schedule an appointment today.
GAE offers a less invasive alternative with effective pain relief results and function improvement, particularly for patients looking to avoid or delay knee replacement surgery. There is also a shorter recovery time compared to surgery. Discuss your options and eligibility for GAE with your doctor to see what treatment fits best.
Genicular artery embolization (GAE) is a safe and effective procedure with minimal risks compared to more invasive surgery options like knee replacement.