Knee osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease affecting millions, causing chronic pain, inflammation, and limited movement. But, thanks to medical advances, new minimally invasive treatment options have emerged to relieve pain. Among these alternatives, Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) stands out as an innovative and effective solution for pain management.
At The Painless Center, Dr. Jason Chiu and his team offer this advanced treatment and explain how it works, its benefits, who it’s recommended for, and what to expect during recovery.
How GAE Can Relieve Your Knee Pain?
Osteoarthritis is characterized by the progressive wear and tear of cartilage in the joints, leading to friction between bones, pain, inflammation, and stiffness. In the knee, this can be particularly debilitating.
Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a minimally invasive procedure that reduces joint inflammation by decreasing blood flow to the small, overactive blood vessels around the knee that contribute to the inflammatory process and persistent pain.
The procedure is performed by a specialist who uses a thin catheter inserted through a puncture in the groin or wrist to access the knee’s blood vessels, and then small particles are injected into the genicular arteries to partially block blood flow. This process effectively reduces inflammation, relieves pain, and improves the patient’s quality of life.
Is Genicular Artery Embolization Right for You?
GAE is recommended for patients with knee osteoarthritis who experience chronic pain and haven’t found satisfactory relief with conventional treatments like physical therapy, anti-inflammatory drugs, and injections. It also serves as an excellent alternative for those who wish to avoid or postpone surgery.
This procedure may be especially indicated for:
- Individuals seeking to maintain an active lifestyle without the burden of pain.
- Patients with contraindications to more invasive surgeries.
- Those who haven’t responded well to other conservative therapies.
- People suffering from persistent inflammation and swelling in the knee.
What Makes GAE a Great Choice?
- Minimally invasive procedure: Unlike traditional surgery, GAE does not require large incisions.
- Fast recovery: Many patients can resume light activities the very next day.
- Low risk of complications: The procedure is safe and performed under precise real-time imaging control.
- Rapid pain relief: Most patients experience significant improvement within a few weeks.
- Alternative to surgery: For patients who prefer not to or cannot undergo total knee replacement, GAE is a viable and effective option.
What to Expect After GAE
Genicular Artery Embolization represents a significant advance in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis, offering pain relief with a minimally invasive procedure and rapid recovery. For patients with chronic pain seeking to improve their quality of life without resorting to complex surgeries, this technique can be an excellent alternative.
GAE is performed under local anesthesia and does not require prolonged hospitalization. After the procedure, patients can return home the same day. Light activities, such as walking, can be resumed within 24 hours, while more strenuous exertion should be avoided for a few weeks.
Scientific studies indicate that approximately 80% of patients experience pain relief for up to four years. In some cases, an additional GAE treatment may be necessary in the future, as osteoarthritis is a progressive disease and can continue to evolve over time.
Knee Pain Getting You Down? The Painless Center Can Help You Feel Better!
Regain your full potential. At The Painless Center, Dr. Chiu and our team of expert specialists combine advanced scientific knowledge with personalized care to alleviate chronic pain, accelerate injury recovery, and enhance your quality of life without invasive surgery.
Consult with us to assess whether this treatment is appropriate for your case. Schedule your personalized consultation today by calling our offices.