Genicular artery embolization (GAE) is a non-surgical alternative for knee osteoarthritis, catering to patients averse to knee replacement surgery. This minimally invasive procedure targets the genicular arteries, reducing blood flow to the knee joint and alleviating pain.
Clinical studies for GAE have shown promising results, with patients experiencing improved mobility and reduced discomfort. A study published in 2023 revealed a GAE technical success rate of 99.7%, with only minor adverse side effects being reported by patients.
GAE offers a viable option for those seeking relief from knee osteoarthritis without undergoing major surgery, enhancing the quality of life. We explore everything you need to know when considering this treatment for knee osteoarthritis, in this comprehensive guide.
Who Should Have a Genicular Artery Embolization Procedure?
Genicular artery embolization (GAE) is an emerging treatment option for individuals grappling with chronic knee pain and osteoarthritis, particularly those who prefer non-surgical interventions or are deemed unfit for knee replacement surgery.
Patients who may be candidates for GAE have the following symptoms even after trying conventional treatments like medication, physical therapy, and injections:
- Persistent knee discomfort
- Limited mobility
- Diminished quality of life
Healthcare providers assess various factors to determine suitability for GAE, including the severity of osteoarthritis, the extent of knee pain, functional impairment, and overall health status. Ideal candidates typically exhibit moderate to severe knee osteoarthritis with persistent pain and limited response to conservative therapies.
Additionally, individuals who are not suitable candidates for knee replacement surgery due to medical comorbidities, advanced age, or personal preference may benefit from GAE.
Patients undergoing evaluation for GAE should receive comprehensive assessments by orthopedic specialists or interventional radiologists to ascertain the appropriateness of the procedure. Through careful consideration of patient history, imaging studies, and physical examinations, healthcare providers can determine whether GAE is a viable option to alleviate knee pain and improve functional outcomes for individuals with osteoarthritis of the knee.
What is the Genicular Artery Embolization Process?
From start to finish, the process of the Genicular Artery Embolization procedure is as follows:
- Initial Evaluation: Healthcare providers thoroughly assess patients to determine eligibility for genicular artery embolization (GAE).
- Anesthesia or Sedation: To ensure comfort during the procedure, patients are administered local anesthesia or conscious sedation. They will remain awake throughout the procedure but may feel pressure or warming sensations at different times.
- Angiography Planning: Interventional radiologists perform angiography to visualize the genicular arteries supplying the knee joint. During angiography, a contrast dye is injected into the bloodstream through a catheter, which is then guided to the knee using X-ray guidance. As the dye flows through the blood vessels, X-ray images are taken, allowing healthcare providers to observe the structure, size, and blood flow within the vessels.
- Catheter Insertion: A catheter is inserted into the femoral artery and guided to the genicular arteries under fluoroscopic guidance, a real-time imaging technique used during medical procedures to visualize the internal structures of the body. It utilizes a fluoroscope, which is a specialized X-ray machine that provides continuous X-ray images onto a monitor.
- Embolization: Microscopic particles are injected through the catheter into the genicular arteries, which supply blood to the knee joint. Once inside the artery, these particles block or reduce blood flow to the area beyond the point of injection, reducing inflammation and alleviating pain.
- Catheter Removal: Once the procedure is complete, the catheters used to deliver the embolic material are removed. The removal process is usually straightforward and involves gently withdrawing the catheters from the blood vessels under careful observation.
- Short-Term Monitoring: Patients are typically monitored for a short period to ensure there are no immediate complications or adverse reactions to the procedure. They may be observed in a recovery area before being discharged home with instructions for post-procedure care and follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider.
- Follow-Up: Patients are monitored post-procedure for efficacy and potential complications.
In total, the procedure should take less than two hours to complete.
Benefits of GAE
Genicular artery embolization offers a spectrum of benefits for individuals struggling with chronic knee pain and osteoarthritis. It targets the root cause of pain by reducing blood flow to the knee joint, resulting in diminished knee pain and enhanced function. This allows patients to regain mobility and engage in daily activities more comfortably.
Moreover, GAE’s minimally invasive nature translates to shorter recovery periods compared to traditional surgical interventions, enabling patients to return to their routine lives swiftly. Preservation of surrounding tissue and joint integrity is another crucial advantage of GAE, as it minimizes the risk of collateral damage and preserves the natural structure of the knee joint.
Lastly, GAE offers the potential for long-lasting pain relief. It addresses the underlying cause of knee pain and potentially provides sustained improvement in quality of life for patients so they can avoid total knee replacement.
Potential Risks or Complications of GAE
The GAE procedure’s complications are minor, but they have been reported to include slight bruising or discomfort at the injection site in the days following the procedure. Allergic reactions to contrast dye or embolic agents are possible, although rare. In some cases, there is a risk of infection or nerve injury, although these occurrences are infrequent.
While GAE is generally considered safe, healthcare providers must thoroughly assess patients for potential risks and ensure appropriate monitoring during and after the procedure to mitigate these complications.
GAE vs. Knee Surgery
Genicular artery embolization presents a compelling alternative to knee surgery for osteoarthritis treatment, with several advantages. Unlike knee surgery, GAE is minimally invasive, leading to shorter recovery times and reduced risk of complications such as infection or blood loss.
Additionally, GAE preserves surrounding tissue and joint integrity, minimizing the risk of collateral damage. With GAE, there’s also the potential for long-lasting pain relief without the need for extensive rehabilitation. Considering these benefits, GAE may be the preferable option for individuals seeking effective osteoarthritis treatment while avoiding the risks and prolonged recovery associated with knee surgery.
Treat Your Knee Osteoarthritis With GAE
We believe in informed decisions and open communication. Before any procedure, you’ll receive a thorough explanation of your options and have all your questions answered with care and expertise.
Get relief from chronic knee pain without surgery with GAE. Connect with a United Knee & Vascular Centers Specialist to find out how our nationally-recognized interventional radiologists can improve your quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions
The effects of genicular artery embolization (GAE) can vary from patient to patient. However, studies suggest that many individuals experience significant and lasting pain relief, with effects often lasting for several months to years, providing long-term benefits for those with osteoarthritis of the knee.
Candidates for genicular artery embolization (GAE) typically include individuals with chronic knee pain and osteoarthritis who seek a non-surgical alternative or are unfit for knee replacement surgery. Patients experiencing persistent pain despite conservative treatments may benefit from GAE’s potential for long-lasting pain relief and improved function.
The success rate of genicular artery embolization (GAE) varies depending on factors such as patient selection and the severity of knee osteoarthritis. Clinical studies have reported success rates of up to 99.7%, with many patients experiencing significant pain relief and improved function following the procedure.