Geniculate Artery Embolization (GAE) is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat knee pain caused by osteoarthritis (OA) or recurrent bleeding in the knee (hemarthrosis).
HOW DOES GAE WORK:
GAE works by blocking small blood vessels in the knee that contribute to inflammation and pain.
WHAT IS EMBOLIZATION:
Embolization is a technique where your Interventional Radiologist uses tiny particles to block certain blood vessels that contribute to inflammation and bleeding.
BENEFITS OF GAE:
- Pain Relief: Studies show significant improvement in pain and knee function.
- Minimally Invasive: No large incisions or long recovery times.
- Reduces Need for Medications: Many patients reduce or stop using painkillers, including opioids.
- Delays Surgery: GAE may help avoid or postpone knee replacement surgery.
THE PROCEDURE:
- A small catheter is inserted by your Interventional Radiologist into the blood vessels supplying the knee.
- Tiny particles are injected to block the vessels causing inflammation or bleeding.
- The procedure is done under local anesthesia and typically takes 1–2 hours.
RECOVERY:
- GAE is an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day.
- Pain relief is often noticeable within days to weeks.
- Results can last up to 2 years, though some patients may need repeat treatment.
IDEAL PATIENTS:
- Have mild to moderate knee Osteoarthritis (OA) who have not found relief with medications, physical therapy, or injections.
- Want to delay or prevent the need for surgery, such as a total knee replacement.
- Are experiencing hemarthrosis (bleeding inside the knee joint), often caused by trauma, bleeding disorders, or complications after knee surgery.
- Want to stop the bleeding and/or reduce inflammation, preventing further damage to the knee.