Geniculate Artery Embolization (GAE)

Geniculate artery embolization (GAE) is a minimally invasive, non-surgical procedure that treats knee pain caused by osteoarthritis. GAE works by blocking blood flow to the inflamed lining of the knee, called the synovium, which reduces inflammation and pain signals. This can help or eliminate knee pain associated with osteoarthritis.

When is the procedure recommended? 

GAE may be recommended for may be recommended for patients with chronic knee pain due to osteoarthritis who have:

  • Have not responded to conservative treatments like anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, or intra-articular injections over three months
  • Unwilling or unable to have knee replacement surgery
  • Between the ages of 40 and 80, who have moderate to severe knee pain, and have osteoarthritis without bony deformity or sclerosis

How is the procedure performed?

An interventional radiology consult will be conducted to evaluate medical history and review prior imaging to determine if a patient is a candidate for the procedure. 

During the GAE procedure, an interventional radiologist uses X-ray imaging guidance to insert a very small catheter into the genicular arteries. Small spherical particles are carefully injected into the abnormal arteries contributing to inflammation within the knee to preserve normal blood flow to the knee joint.

What are the benefits?

  • GAE can provide significant pain relief and improve mobility and quality of life for patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis
  • GAE can help preserve joint function and potentially delaying the need for more invasive procedures such as knee replacement surgery
  • The procedure can also help resolve hemarthrosis in patients after total knee arthroplasty (TKA)

 

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