Genicular Artery Embolization

What is genicular artery embolization exactly?

Genicular artery embolization (GAE) is a procedure that blocks the flow of blood (embolization) to the lining (synovium) of the knee to reduce inflammation caused by osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative form of arthritis that occurs from the gradual wearing away of the cartilage in a joint. Osteoarthritis may affect any joint in the body but is common in the knees because of the amount of stress placed on these joints throughout your life.

Knee arthritis is a progressive condition. Medical treatment, such as anti-inflammatory medications or knee injections, for knee arthritis, provides temporary relief from the pain, which gradually worsens as the disease progresses. You may need knee replacement surgery when these conservative treatments no longer help the pain.

GAE may help you get long-term relief from knee pain, delaying or preventing the need for joint replacement. 

I have knee arthritis. Is genicular artery embolization right for me?

Your provider determines if you’re a candidate for GAE after a consultation. If you have debilitating knee pain from osteoarthritis and don’t want knee surgery, you might benefit from the minimally invasive procedure.

What happens during genicular artery embolization?

Your provider at Pearl Cardio-Vascular of Inland Empire explains what happens during GAE at your consultation. It’s an outpatient procedure that takes about two hours.

Your provider administers a light sedative before starting the procedure to help you relax and eliminate pain. They insert a catheter into an artery in your upper leg and advance it toward your knees using X-ray-guided imaging. 

They inject tiny particles into the arteries that supply blood to the lining of the knee, blocking the flow of blood.

Your provider removes the catheter, closes the wound, and sends you to the recovery area for monitoring. Once stable, you go home the same day. You must have someone drive you home after your GAE and plan to take it easy the rest of the day. 

What can I expect after genicular artery embolization?

You may start to feel relief from your knee pain about two weeks after your GAE as the inflammation subsides. Though results vary, you may have relief from your pain for several years.

Are you looking for a nonsurgical treatment for your knee arthritis? Call Pearl Cardio-Vascular of Inland Empire today or book an appointment online to learn about genicular artery embolization and how it can benefit you.