GENICULAR ARTERY EMBOLIZATION (GAE) & KNEE PAIN TREATMENT
GENICULAR ARTERY EMBOLIZATION (GAE) & KNEE PAIN TREATMENT
SERVICING THE GREATER HOUSTON AREA
SERVICING THE GREATER HOUSTON AREA
WHAT IS GENICULAR ARTERY EMBOLIZATION (GAE)?
Genicular artery embolization is a minimally invasive treatment performed in our clinic used for knee pain relief due to osteoarthritis by reducing blood flow to the lining of the knee, known as synovium. In osteoarthritis patients, pain is often caused by an increased blood flow to the knee due to inflammation. GAE is an alternative to knee replacement surgery. Our surgeons are experts in treating knee pain and knee joint pain.
COMMON GAE SYMPTOMS
Minimally invasive procedures aim at allowing patients to get back on their feet with a quick recovery. From arthritis pain to debilitating knee pain, GAE is one of the best non-surgical treatment options. A good candidate for GAE includes, but not limited to:
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING GENICULAR ARTERY EMBOLIZATION, HOUSTON:
GAE is an outpatient and minimally invasive procedure that uses moderate sedation. During the procedure, a small catheter is inserted into the femoral artery in the groin and guided using moving X-ray imaging to the arteries carrying blood to the lining of the knee. Tiny beads are injected through the catheter into these arteries, blocking them and reducing blood supply to the area of inflammation. During the procedure, images of the patient’s leg can be viewed in real-time, making the procedure precise and effective. After the procedure, patients may experience temporarily increased knee pain, but over the course of several weeks, there will be a reduction or elimination of the knee pain.
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER THE PROCEDURE:
When the procedure is finished, the catheter is removed, and pressure is applied to the incision site. You may be asked to rest in bed for two to four hours after the procedure. Because you will be sedated, you should have someone with you who can drive you home. You should not drive for 24 hours after your treatment. You may resume light activities during the first week after the procedure. Refrain from excessive high-impact exercise for two weeks.
- Patients with osteoarthritic knee pain
- Experience chronic knee pain
- Who have not responded to medication, physical therapy, and/or joint injections
- Who are not ready to have a knee surgery or are not good candidates for surgery
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, contact our office today.