Genicular Artery Embolization
Innovative Pain Relief for Knee Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that affects millions, often causing persistent knee pain and stiffness, especially among older adults. At Monterey Bay Vascular, we offer Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE), an advanced, minimally invasive procedure designed to provide effective pain relief for patients with knee OA. GAE is an ideal option for those seeking an alternative to surgery for long-lasting relief.
What is Genular Artery Embolization (GAE)?
GAE is a minimally invasive, nonsurgical procedure that reduces knee pain by targeting and blocking specific blood vessels (genicular arteries) supplying the knee. This reduces inflammation and interrupts the cycle of pain caused by OA without requiring surgery. Using a small catheter, a specialist injects microscopic beads to reduce blood flow to inflamed areas, effectively decreasing pain and promoting relief.
How Does GAE Work?
Recent research reveals that OA pain is more complex than initially thought, involving a feedback loop of inflammation and new blood vessel growth (neoangiogenesis) in the knee. This cycle of inflammation and new vessel formation intensifies pain. By using microscopic beads to block these newly formed vessels, GAE breaks this cycle, helping reduce inflammation and pain.
Studies have shown that GAE offers significant pain reduction that can last for two years or more, allowing patients to minimize reliance on pain medications and improve quality of life.
Who Can Benefit from GAE?
GAE is a promising option for patients with:
Mild-to-moderate knee osteoarthritis
Persistent knee pain despite traditional treatments, such as NSAIDs, lifestyle adjustments, and joint injections
Reluctance to undergo or ineligibility for surgical options like total knee replacement (TKA)
If you’re experiencing ongoing knee pain that hasn’t responded to other treatments, GAE may be right for you.
Benefits of Genicular Artery Embolization
GAE offers several compelling benefits:
- Effective Pain Relief: Most patients report a significant reduction in knee pain, with relief lasting at least two years.
- Minimally Invasive: As a nonsurgical procedure, GAE allows for a shorter recovery time compared to surgery.
- Performed Outpatient: You can return home the same day, minimizing disruptions to your daily life.
- Moderate Sedation: GAE requires only moderate sedation, eliminating the need for general anesthesia.
- High Success Rate: Studies show a technical success rate of 99.7%, meaning the procedure is both safe and effective.
- Well-Tolerated: Patients generally find GAE to be a comfortable and minimally disruptive procedure.
What to Expect: The GAE Procedure
Consultation: You’ll meet with an interventional radiologist to review your symptoms and imaging and discuss your treatment plan.
Preparation: GAE is performed under moderate sedation to keep you comfortable. General anesthesia is not necessary.
- Procedure:
A small incision is made, typically in the groin, to insert a thin catheter.
Using X-ray guidance, the catheter is directed to the knee’s blood vessels, where inflammation and abnormal blood vessels are visible.
Small beads are injected to block these vessels, reducing blood flow and breaking the pain-inflammation cycle.
Post-Procedure: After the beads are in place, the catheter is removed, and a plug is used to close the artery. The entire procedure typically takes 1-2 hours.
- Recovery: You’ll be monitored briefly before going home the same day. For the first 7-10 days, we recommend avoiding strenuous activities and heavy lifting, though most patients can resume light activities quickly.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
GAE is generally safe, though minor side effects may occur:
Temporary Skin Discoloration: Occurs in 10-65% of cases and typically resolves over time.
Puncture Site Hematoma: About 10-17% of patients experience mild bruising at the catheter insertion site.
Rare Complications: These may include temporary tingling (plantar paresthesias), mild bone tissue changes (bone infarction), or postembolization syndrome (temporary fever or nausea)
Why Choose Monterey Bay Vascular for GAE?
Monterey Bay Vascular’s expert team is dedicated to innovative, patient-centered care. Our experienced specialists have extensive training in vascular health and minimally invasive procedures like GAE, helping patients manage OA pain effectively. We combine advanced techniques with compassionate care, providing you with the best treatment experience possible.
If you’re considering GAE or want to learn more, contact Monterey Bay Vascular to schedule a consultation. Our goal is to improve your quality of life and help you move with confidence.
Why Monterey Bay Vascular?
At Monterey Bay Vascular, we offer coordinated care to prevent, diagnose, and treat vascular disease.
We understand, everyone deserves to live a long, happy life. Vascular disease may lead to limb loss and other life-threatening conditions such as pulmonary embolism. Our licensed vascular surgeon uses state-of-the-art tools and technology to tackle all problems related to your vascular system. Thanks to our vast wealth of experience, we also work with our patients to develop a unique solution that fits your needs. Contact us today to learn more about the vascular treatments we offer and schedule an appointment today!