Vascular Institute of Michigan – Knee pain is one of the most common causes of chronic pain in the United States. Whether it is the result of arthritis, an injury, or a degenerative condition, over 100 million Americans say they suffer from knee pain that impacts their quality of life. Knee pain is so prevalent, it is currently the second most common cause of chronic pain in the U.S.. Most knee pain is treated with traditional approaches, such as physical therapy and medications. Invasive joint replacement surgeries are even recommended in some cases, which often result in extensive recovery periods and greater risk for complications.

Fortunately, a groundbreaking minimally invasive alternative called Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is offering new promise for people struggling with chronic knee pain from conditions like osteoarthritis who have not experienced relief from traditional treatments and are looking to avoid invasive procedures. In this blog, we’ll answer the question, what is GAE for knee pain, including an overview of how it works, the pros and cons, and whether it might be right for you.

An Overview of Osteoarthritis and Why It Causes Chronic Knee Pain

One of the most common causes of chronic knee pain is a degenerative joint condition called osteoarthritis. Impacting over 32 million people in the U.S., osteoarthritis develops when the cartilage that surrounds the bones in the knee slowly wears down. Over time, this can lead to pain, swelling, and may impact the ability to move without discomfort.

Inflammation is another common symptom of osteoarthritis, developing gradually as the cartilage in the knee breaks down and blood flow to the knee joint increases. Often difficult to treat with traditional treatments like medications and injections, inflammation plays a key role in the development of chronic pain and swelling.

What is GAE for Knee Pain?

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a cutting-edge treatment for knee pain that is safe and delivers long-lasting relief. Considered a minimally invasive procedure, the GAE for knee pain process targets specific genicular arteries around the knee joint using a technique called embolization. This is a safe and highly effective process that blocks the arteries to reduce excess blood flow causing pain and inflammation.

Because this is a minimally invasive procedure, there is no need to make large incisions or remove tissue in the knee. Rather, a small incision is used to insert a catheter in the body and inject an embolic solution into the arteries to block blood flow.

What Does the GAE For Knee Pain Procedure Look Like?

This minimally invasive outpatient procedure typically takes about one hour and most patients will start noticing meaningful pain relief within the first few days. The following is a brief overview of the procedure.

Step 1: Prior to the procedure, a physician will use imaging to view the blood vessels surrounding the knee joint. This process allows them to identify which arteries will require embolization.

Step 2: After the targeted arteries in the knee have been located, a small incision will be made to insert a catheter. The physician will use x-ray imaging during the entire process to guide the catheter to the correct location.

Step 3: An embolic mixture consisting of microscopic particles is injected through the catheter and into the genicular arteries in the knee. This is what blocks the abnormal blood flow to the knee joint.

Step 4: Once the embolic mixture has been injected, the physician will remove the catheter and close the incision. The patient is then monitored in recovery and able to go home the same day.

Advantages OF GAE For Knee Pain

Compared to invasive procedures and traditional treatments for knee pain, the GAE procedure offers many advantages.

Minimally Invasive: With only a small incision to insert a catheter and inject an embolic mixture necessary, this procedure is considered minimally invasive and comes with few risks.

Fast Recovery: Patients go home the same day of the procedure and can generally return to normal activities, including work, the next day. There is also no need for additional treatments or physical therapy.

Highly Effective: Unlike traditional methods, the GAE procedure targets the root of the problem, which means most patients experience long-term relief and improved mobility.

Stop Relying on Medications: After the procedure, reliance on highly addictive prescription pain medications is no longer needed.

Disadvantages OF GAE For Knee Pain

GAE is a proven minimally invasive technique that is safe and comes with few risks. The most common side-effects patients will experience are mild redness or irritation after the procedure. It is also possible to experience minor pain or swelling in the days following the procedure as the body responds to the embolization process.

When to Consider GAE for Knee Pain

Patients who are experiencing moderate to severe chronic knee pain due to osteoarthritis are ideal candidates for the GAE procedure. Those who have tried conservative treatments without relief, are looking for alternatives to traditional/invasive knee replacement surgeries, and are trying to reduce reliance on prescription pain medications should also consider GAE for knee pain.

Whether you’re dealing with chronic knee pain, have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis of the knee, or have undergone knee surgery without success, GAE for knee pain is a safe and highly effective option that should be considered. To learn more about GAE for knee pain at Vascular Institute of Michigan and to schedule a consultation, contact us today or call (810)-535-5555.

FAQ

Q: Am I eligible for GAE for knee pain if I have already had knee replacement surgery?

A: Yes. Most people who have had knee surgery can still benefit from GAE for knee pain. Contact Vascular Institute of Michigan to schedule a consultation to determine if GAE is right for you.

Q: What age for knee pain can benefit from Genicular Arterial Embolization?

A: There are generally no age restrictions for adults interested in GAE for knee pain related to osteoarthritis. Most patients who undergo the GAE procedure are between 40 and 80 years old.

Q: Is GAE covered by Medicare or health insurance?

A: Yes. Genicular Arterial Embolization (GAE) is covered by most health insurances, including Medicare.