Preparing for Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)
At Texas Knee Institute, we prioritize patient safety and satisfaction. Our experienced specialists work closely with each patient to formulate an individualized treatment plan tailored to their needs. We realize that every patient is unique and strive to provide customized and compassionate care throughout the treatment journey.
The following details will help you better understand what to expect during genicular artery embolization (GAE) treatment.
What to Expect Before Treatment
Before your scheduled GAE treatment, your physician will require the following:
- Preliminary evaluation
- Assessment of your medical history
- Physical examination
- Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) symptom score
- Diagnostic imaging tests
- Blood tests (screening for bleeding disorders and medical fitness for treatment)
- Testing for allergies
- Review of medications, including non-prescription pain relievers and supplements
- A complete discussion of treatment goals
- A full discussion of treatment risks
- Medical insurance coverage confirmation
You might be asked to refrain from consuming certain foods and beverages in the days leading up to your treatment.
The pre-procedure evaluation is tailored to the needs of the individual patient. Depending upon your current health, underlying medical conditions, age, and other factors, our physicians might require additional tests to confirm your eligibility for GAE.
The Day of Your GAE Procedure
After check-in, you will be asked to put on a hospital gown after removing all clothing and accessories below the waist. From there, your procedure will involve the following:
- Sedation. Your physician will prepare the treatment site and administer a local anesthetic to prevent discomfort. General anesthetic is not used for GAE – patients are awake during treatment.
- Catheter insertion. To insert the thin catheter used to release the embolic agents, the interventional radiologist will make a very small puncture in the groin area to access the femoral artery. This opening will not require closing stitches.
- Genicular artery location. When the catheter is inserted, a contrast dye is released so that the vascular network can be visualized using X-ray imaging. When the physician locates the genicular arteries, the embolic particles are released into the blood vessels.
- Catheter removal. Once the particles have been released, the physician gradually extracts the catheter and applies a sterile dressing to the puncture site.
- Post-procedure care. You will be given time to rest and recover from the local anesthetic. Our team will monitor your blood pressure and injection site to ensure no complications.
While every patient experience is slightly different, you can expect the procedure to take approximately one to two hours. Once you have sufficiently recovered, you will be discharged to rest at home.
At Texas Knee Institute, we understand how knee pain can impact one's quality of life. That is why we have made it our mission to offer our patients the most advanced and personalized care. Through our expertise in GAE, we can help alleviate knee pain and restore mobility, allowing individuals to regain their active lifestyles.
Texas Knee Institute: Delivering Advanced, Non-Surgical Knee Pain Relief
Texas Knee Institute is dedicated to providing patient-focused care that yields exceptional outcomes. Our team of experts specializes in innovative endovascular procedures that deliver superior results with short recovery times and minimal risk of complications.
Our dedicated team is here to provide the highest level of care and expertise in minimally invasive genicular artery embolization. If you are enduring knee pain interfering with your everyday life, please get in touch with our helpful representativesget in touch with our helpful representativesget in touch with our helpful representatives today.
