Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)
A New Way to Treat Knee Pain Caused by Osteoarthritis
Do you have a sore knee that just won't get better? You're not alone. Many people, especially as they get older, deal with osteoarthritis, a common condition that causes knee pain. Luckily, there's a new, simple treatment called Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) that can help. This new, minimally-invasive procedure is performed by our experienced team of board-certified vascular surgeons.
What is Genicular Artery Embolization?
GAE is a way to treat knee pain without major surgery. It's a "minimally-invasive" procedure, which means doctors don't have to make a big cut.
How it Works:
- A doctor uses a thin tube, called a catheter, and guides it with X-rays from your upper leg to the blood vessels in your knee.
- Next, they inject tiny particles that block blood flow to the inflamed areas.
- These particles reduce the swelling and pain caused by osteoarthritis.
The whole procedure usually takes just one to two hours, and you can go home the same day! It often takes about two weeks to start feeling relief as the swelling goes down.
What are Genicular Arteries?
Your genicular arteries are the blood vessels that supply blood to your knee. When you have osteoarthritis, these arteries can become swollen and abnormal. This extra blood flow is a big reason for the pain and swelling you feel. GAE targets these specific arteries to stop the inflammation.
What Causes Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a "wear and tear" condition. It happens when the cushiony layer in your knee joint, called cartilage, wears away over time. Without this cushion, the bones in your knee rub against each other, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. It's very common and affects nearly half of all Americans.
Who is GAE For?
This minimally-invasive procedure can be a great option for people who:
- Are between 40 and 80 years old.
- Have moderate to severe knee pain from osteoarthritis.
- Haven't found relief from other treatments like physical therapy or knee injections.
- Don't want or can't have knee replacement surgery.
What are the Benefits?
- It's a minimally-invasive procedure.
- You can go home the same day.
- It can help you reduce pain medication.
- The recovery time is much shorter than with surgery.
- It can reduce knee pain and help you move better.
