What Is Genicular Artery Embolization?
Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a revolutionary minimally invasive procedure used to treat knee pain attributed to persistent inflammation. Individuals with osteoarthritis often have chronic inflammation which can lead to the development of abnormal blood vessels around the knee. These abnormal blood vessels cause nerve pain. Genicular Artery Embolization embolizes (blocks off) these vessels, eliminating them and resolving the associated knee pain.
Who Is a Candidate for Genicular Artery Embolization?
You may be a candidate for Genicular Artery Embolization if any of the following apply:
- You have mild to severe knee osteoarthritis, are experiencing knee pain and wish to avoid surgery
- You are not able to have knee surgery (knee replacement)
- You have had a knee replacement but have persistent knee pain after surgery
A consult with an Interventional Radiologist is the best way to determine candidacy for Genicular Artery Embolization.
During the Procedure
Genicular Artery Embolization is performed in the Interventional Radiology Suite at our DRI outpatient imaging centers. You will be offered sedation to stay comfortable and relaxed during the procedure.
An Interventional Radiologist will place a small catheter into the artery over the hip or ankle and then take pictures of the arteries supplying your knee. The artery that supplies the area of the knee responsible for the pain will be embolized (blocked off) by injecting microscopic particles. The catheter will then be removed from the artery and a bandage will be applied. The procedure typically takes 45–90 minutes.
What Is the Recovery Time?
After the procedure, you’ll move to the recovery area for 1–2 hours to allow the sedative medication to wear off and arterial puncture site to heal, plus have a snack. For up to 7–10 days after the procedure, knee pain may be worse than usual. Patients are prescribed pain medication and sometimes a steroid to use at home. Most people can return to normal activities in 24–48 hours, but individual recovery rates may vary. As always, following your post-procedure instructions are essential for the best outcome.
How Long Does It Take to Feel Relief?
By 3–4 weeks after the procedure, most patients experience significant pain relief. This typically lasts for at least two years. Although rare, the procedure can be repeated due to recurrent pain. It is possible to still have joint injections or even knee surgery after the procedure, if needed.