Genicular Artery Embolization

Relieve Arthritic Knee Pain Without Joint Replacement

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)

Non-surgical relief from chronic knee pain

Immediate, long-term pain relief for osteoarthritis (OA) in the knee is possible with genicular artery embolization (GAE). OA of the knee is caused by the breakdown of the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones. Without that cushion, the bones rub together, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. 

You are likely have knee osteoarthritis if you suffer from:

• Persistent knee pain
  
• Stiffness when not active
• Pain that is especially prevalent when climbing stairs, walking, hiking 

Am I a candidate for GAE?

For many patients with OA of the knee, GAE safely and effectively manages knee pain, inflammation, and limited mobility without the need for joint replacement. However, if your osteoarthritis is severe, you may still require knee replacement surgery.

The GAE procedure is ideal for patients who have persistent knee pain despite conservative treatments (such as physical therapy, oral pain medicine, and knee injections), and who wish to delay or avoid knee replacement. 

GAE is also an excellent option for patients who are not candidates for knee replacement due to:

• Age
• Medical conditions
• Obesity
• Or other health concerns

How does GAE work?

GAE blocks the blood flow to abnormal arteries around your painful knee. The decreased blood flow reduces inflammation and relieves pain. 

What to expect

During your GAE procedure: 

1. You’ll receive a sedative and/or numbing agent. General anesthesia is not required, and you will feel no pain during the procedure. 
2. A tiny catheter will be inserted into a blood vessel in your wrist or groin.
3. A dye will be injected into the catheter in order to locate the abnormal arteries in your knee.
4. With the help of real-time X-ray guidance, your doctor will be able to determine which arteries need to be blocked. 
5. Your doctor injects tiny beads (called microspheres) into the appropriate arteries, decreasing blood flow to inflamed tissues of the affected knee.
6. The catheter is removed and a bandage is placed to keep the area clean.  
7. You’ll be asked to lay flat on your back for up to two hours after the procedure and until the sedative wears off before you leave. 

Most patients experience mild soreness for a few days after GAE. You can expect to resume normal activities within a few days. 

What are the benefits of GAE vs. joint replacement?

Compared to knee replacement, GAE is a less invasive alternative that can help the right patients delay or avoid surgery. Here’s why many physicians and patients prefer GAE:

• Less invasive. No surgical incision needed.
• Outpatient procedure that avoids general anesthesia
• Preserves the natural knee joint; does not remove bone or replace cartilage
• Procedure time is one-to-two hours; return home same day
• Recovery time is significantly faster than knee replacement
• Extensive physical therapy is not needed
• Less costly than surgery
• Reduces pain and inflammation without surgery

Is GAE right for me?

If chronic knee pain has limited your mobility or quality of life, GAE may offer the relief you’ve been seeking. Find out if you’re a candidate:

• Call Vascular & Interventional Associates at 859-305-9947
• Request an appointment online