How Genicular Artery Embolization May Help Knee Osteoarthritis Pain
Knee osteoarthritis can make everyday movement difficult. Walking, standing, using stairs, shopping, driving, and getting out of a chair can all become painful when the knee joint is irritated or inflamed. For many patients, the biggest concern is whether knee replacement surgery is the only option.
At Knee Pain Centers of America, patients can learn about nonsurgical and minimally invasive treatment options, including genicular artery embolization. This treatment may be an option for certain patients with knee osteoarthritis pain who want to explore alternatives before considering knee replacement surgery.
What Is Knee Osteoarthritis?
Knee osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage inside the knee joint becomes worn or damaged. Cartilage helps cushion the bones and allows the joint to move smoothly. As the cartilage changes, the knee may become painful, stiff, swollen, or harder to move.
Osteoarthritis symptoms can develop gradually. Some patients first notice pain after walking or standing. Others feel stiffness in the morning, swelling after activity, or difficulty climbing stairs. Over time, symptoms may begin to interfere with independence and quality of life.
Why Inflammation Matters in Knee Pain
Inflammation can play an important role in knee osteoarthritis pain. When the knee joint is irritated, the body may increase blood flow to the area. This can contribute to ongoing inflammation and pain signals around the knee.
For some patients, reducing abnormal inflammation around the knee may help decrease pain and improve comfort during daily activity.
What Is Genicular Artery Embolization?
Genicular artery embolization, often called GAE, is a minimally invasive procedure that targets small blood vessels around the knee. The goal is to reduce abnormal blood flow connected to inflammation in the painful knee joint.
During the procedure, a specialist uses image guidance to carefully reach the small arteries around the knee. Tiny particles are then used to reduce excess blood flow to the inflamed area. This is designed to help calm inflammation and reduce pain in appropriate candidates.
GAE is not the same as knee replacement surgery. It does not remove or replace the knee joint. It is a minimally invasive treatment option that may help certain patients manage knee osteoarthritis pain.
Who May Be a Candidate?
Not every patient with knee pain is a candidate for genicular artery embolization. A consultation is needed to determine whether this treatment may be appropriate. Patients who may want to ask about GAE include those with knee osteoarthritis pain, pain despite rest or medication, pain that affects walking or stairs, or a desire to explore options before knee replacement.
A provider can review your symptoms, medical history, imaging, and treatment goals to determine whether GAE may be worth considering.
Explore Your Options Before Surgery
Many patients believe they must simply live with knee arthritis pain until they are ready for knee replacement surgery. In some cases, nonsurgical treatment options may be available before that point.
At Knee Pain Centers of America, our team helps patients explore treatment options for knee osteoarthritis pain. If knee pain is limiting your mobility, schedule a consultation to learn whether genicular artery embolization or another nonsurgical treatment may be right for you.
