Non surgical genicular artery embolization for knee pain
In the US about 1 in 2 adults aged 60 years or older have knee pain due to osteoarthritis. This number is expected to grow as the population ages. Knee pain can make it difficult to do daily activities such as walking, going up and downstairs, or getting in and out of a car. Chronic knee pain can lead to debilitating knee pain.
There are several options for treating knee pain. Some people take medicines, some have surgery, and some use other treatments such as acupuncture or massage. For some people, symptomatic knee osteoarthritis leads them to undergo knee replacement surgery. However there are non surgical management options for knee arthritis that relieve pain. One newer treatment option being chosen by more and more knee pain sufferers is called genicular artery embolization (GAE).
What causes knee pain?
Knee pain is most often caused by osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis that happens when the knee cartilage (the smooth part of the bone) wears away. This can happen due to age, injury, or other factors. When the cartilage wears away, the bones rub against each other. This can cause pain even severe knee pain, swelling, and stiffness.
What are the risk factors for knee osteoarthritis?
Risk factors for knee osteoarthritis include :
- Age: The risk of knee osteoarthritis increases with age.
- Obesity: People who are obese are more likely to develop knee osteoarthritis.
- Joint injury: A knee injury, such as a torn ligament or meniscus, can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis later in life.
- Repetitive stress: Jobs that require kneeling, squatting, or lifting heavy objects can put stress on the knees and lead to osteoarthritis.
- High impact activities like running
- Certain medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis
Imaging & Interventional Specialists offer FDA-approved treatments (non-surgical alternatives) for knee pain.
Call us now or schedule an appointment to discuss your knee pain and your options.
915-303-8977
What is genicular artery embolization (GAE - also called geniculate artery embolization)?
Genicular artery embolization (GAE) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat knee pain and provide relief. It is done by placing small beads in the arteries that supply blood to the knee joint. The beads block some of the blood flow to the knee joint. This helps to reduce pain and inflammation.
GAE is a newer treatment option for knee pain, but it is becoming more popular because it is less invasive than surgery and has a shorter recovery time. Instead of being in a hospital, you are in a comfortable, friendly, familiar outpatient setting.
What are the benefits of genicular artery embolization?
The benefits of GAE include:
- Reduced knee pain
- Reduced swelling
- Reduced stiffness
- Improved function
- No need for surgery
- Shorter recovery time
The procedure generally takes less than an hour and is done as an outpatient procedure, which means you can go home the same day.
GAE is a minimally invasive procedure, so the risks are typically low. Your doctor will discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure with you before it is done.
How do Imaging & Interventional Specialists determine if I am a candidate for genicular artery embolization?
An Imaging & Interventional Specialist will take a detailed history, review provided chart notes, perform a complete physical exam and analyze and/or order imaging studies that include:
- radiographs (X-rays)
- computed tomography (CT)
- magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
After careful evaluation, we can determine whether you are a candidate for genicular artery embolization (also called geniculate artery embolization).
Why choose Imaging & Interventional Specialists to treat your knee pain with genicular artery embolization?
Our experienced board-certified specialists successfully perform “pinhole” genicular artery embolization offering this region leading, world-class, state-of-the-art solutions to knee pain. Our minimally invasive image guided procedures are cutting edge technology without the cutting, without the scalpel. You leave with a Band-Aid!
- Procedures are usually done in a comfortable outpatient setting with familiar friendly staff
- Pinhole procedures offer fast recovery, less risk, and less pain
Imaging & Interventional Specialists are leaders in interventional radiology and experts in the minimally invasive procedures such as genicular artery embolization that will cure or minimize your knee pain.
Using state-of-the-art equipment, our experienced board-certified specialists are focused on your best outcome.
At Imaging & Interventional Specialists board certified physicians offer in-house testing for diagnosis and to develop an individualized treatment program for your knee pain.
