Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) Research

What is GAE?

Genicular artery embolization (GAE) is an FDA-approved procedure that offers an effective solution for individuals with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis that is not responsive to other conventional interventions. By reducing pain and inflammation, GAE can provide much-needed relief for those who have not found success with over-the-counter NSAIDs, hot and cold therapies, steroid injections, and strength training.

An interventional radiologist performs GAE in a minimally invasive manner. Under image guidance, the physician navigates a catheter through the blood vessels to the genicular arteries. Once the catheter is in position, tiny embolic particles are injected, causing the blood vessels to become blocked. This procedure is typically well-tolerated and does not require a lengthy recovery period.

Studies have shown that GAE can provide significant and long-lasting relief for patients with moderate to severe knee pain and stiffness. Many patients who have undergone GAE have reported reduced pain, enhanced mobility, and overall improved quality of life.

Genicular Artery Embolization Research Findings

A comprehensive analysis from Osteoarthritis and Cartilage Open, a leading publication dedicated to advancements in osteoarthritis research, found that GAE is an effective and safe procedure, yielding excellent outcomes for patients experiencing significant osteoarthritis-related knee pain.

The paper found that the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis is more reticulated than previously believed. While knee osteoarthritis was once considered a phenomenon of wear and tear, the condition is more appropriately considered a progressive, whole-organ disease that encompasses the entire anatomy of the joint, including bone, ligaments, adipose tissue, and knee lining (synovium) tissues.

Because osteoarthritis symptoms are primarily related to synovial vascularity dysfunction, inhibiting blood flow to the synovium succeeded in 99.7% of the cases reviewed by the study authors.

Additional findings included the following:

• Patients experienced notable knee pain relief
• Patients experienced notable knee joint function improvement
• Fewer than 10% of patients required more than one GAE treatment in two years
• Fewer than 6% of patients underwent subsequent surgical knee replacement after GAE

Texas Knee Institute: Advanced Treatment for Osteoarthritis-Related Knee Pain

Texas Knee Institute is a leader in non-surgical knee osteoarthritis treatment. With a commitment to excellence and a dedication to staying at the forefront of medical advancements, we offer specialized treatments that aim to minimize pain, improve joint function, and enhance mobility for patients affected by knee osteoarthritis.

Our team of experienced interventional radiologists is committed to providing exceptional, compassionate patient care. We understand the debilitating effect this condition can have on daily life, and we are dedicated to offering innovative treatments like GAE to help our patients find relief.

Don't let knee osteoarthritis hold you back - take the first step towards a pain-free life with GAE at Texas Knee Institute.

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