Geniculate Artery EmbolizationSpecialist in Dallas

If your osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee hasn’t responded to traditional methods of treatment or if you’re not a suitable candidate for surgery, geniculate artery embolization (GAE) might be an excellent alternative for you.

It’s a ground-breaking, minimally invasive treatment that effectively obstructs the blood supply to the knee joint’s inflamed nerves. We’re proud to inform you that Texas Vascular Institute is one of the few clinics in Dallas offering this advanced procedure.

So, why consider GAE? Its benefits are numerous and significant:

• Provides effective pain relief
• Improves joint function
• Reduces inflammation
• Lowers the risk of complications compared to traditional treatments

OA of the knee is typically caused or exacerbated by factors such as age, genetic predisposition, obesity, injury, overuse, and alignment issues.

If left untreated, complications can arise, like chronic pain, disability, infection, and the need for joint replacement surgery.

As you can see, while there are several existing treatments for OA of the knee, they come with their own limitations and risks. This is where GAE, with its minimal invasiveness and efficient results, stands out as a new-age solution to an age-old problem.

The GAE Advantage: How Does It Outshine Traditional Treatment Options?

Geniculate artery embolization (GAE) is a cutting-edge treatment option that directly targets the abnormal blood vessels fueling inflammation in the knee joint. It uses tiny particles called embolic material to block these blood vessels, significantly reducing inflammation and, consequently, pain.

Unlike other treatments, GAE is carried out by an interventional radiologist, using image guidance and local anesthesia in an outpatient setting. It’s a quick procedure, taking about an hour, with no need for incisions or stitches.

What sets GAE apart from other treatment options:

• Instant and long-lasting pain relief
• Enhanced function and quality of life
• Diminished inflammation and swelling
• Reduced risk of infection, bleeding, or nerve damage
• Swift recovery and quick return to normal activities
• Eliminates the need for continuous medication or invasive surgery

The GAE Journey: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Before GAE, you need to adhere to specific instructions like:

• Stop certain medications, like blood thinners or anti-inflammatory drugs, a few days before the procedure
• Refrain from eating or drinking anything several hours before
• Arrange transportation post-procedure, as you won’t be in a position to drive

During GAE, local anesthesia and sedation will be administered to ensure your comfort. The interventional radiologist will create a small puncture in your groin or wrist to insert a thin tube called a catheter into your artery.

This catheter, guided by X-ray imaging, will be advanced to the geniculate arteries that supply the knee joint. A contrast dye will be injected to visualize the blood vessels, followed by the embolic agents to block them. Post this, the catheter will be removed, and the puncture site will be pressurized to prevent bleeding.

After GAE, you’ll be monitored in the recovery room for a few hours before being discharged. You might experience mild pain, bruising, or swelling in the knee or groin area for a few days following the procedure.

Post-procedure instructions include:

Taking prescribed pain medication
Using ice packs on the knee or groin area as required
Keeping the puncture site clean and dry
Avoiding strenuous activities for a few weeks
Regular check-ups with your interventional radiologist

GAE treatment is relatively straightforward, less invasive, and offers a quick recovery compared to other treatment options.

GAE has also been proven to reduce inflammation and swelling in the knee joint, besides preventing further cartilage damage or bone spurs. Key studies include:

• A 2017 study by Okuno et al. reported a significant decrease in synovial thickness and volume in the knee joint six months post-GAE in 11 OA patients.
• A 2018 study by Bagla et al. revealed no progression of cartilage loss or osteophyte formation in the knee joint one year after GAE in 13 OA patients.

In terms of success and complication rates, GAE trumps other OA treatment options:

• A 2015 study by Okuno et al. reported no major complications or adverse events related to GAE in 11 OA patients.
• A 2017 study by Bagla et al. noted only one minor complication (transient skin rash) related to GAE in 13 OA patients.

Maintaining GAE Outcomes: A Pathway to Long-Term Relief

Once GAE has been performed, maintaining the results and outcomes involves:

• Continuing with a physical therapy or exercise program to strengthen your muscles and enhance mobility
• Maintaining a healthy weight and diet to lessen stress on your joints and prevent inflammation
• Avoiding activities or habits that could aggravate knee pain or cause injury, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, or high-impact sports

In summary, GAE is a revolutionary treatment option for OA patients who haven’t found relief in conservative therapies or aren’t surgical candidates.

It’s a minimally invasive procedure that curbs the blood supply to inflamed nerves in the knee joint, reducing inflammation and pain. Carried out by an interventional radiologist, the procedure boasts several benefits over traditional treatments, including immediate and long-term pain relief, improved function and quality of life, reduced inflammation and swelling, lower risk of infection, bleeding, or nerve damage, and a swift recovery.

The scientific evidence supporting GAE is robust, with studies showing significant pain relief and improved function in OA patients post-procedure. GAE also effectively reduces inflammation and swelling in the knee joint, and evidence suggests it prevents further cartilage damage and bone spur formation.

Are you interested in learning more or scheduling an appointment? Visit our website at Texas Vascular Institute or call our office at 972-798-4641.