Unveiling a Game Changer in Osteoarthritis of the Knee: Genicular Artery Embolization

As we embrace the energy and excitement of March Madness, it’s also an opportune time to shed light on a condition that affects millions worldwide – osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee. This degenerative joint disease can significantly impair mobility and quality of life, making every movement feel like a challenge. At TRA Endovascular, we are committed to advancing treatment options for our patients, and in the spirit of innovation, we’re spotlighting a cutting-edge procedure: Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE).

Understanding Osteoarthritis of the Knee

Osteoarthritis of the knee is a condition characterized by the breakdown of cartilage, leading to pain, stiffness, and decreased function. It’s a widespread ailment among adults, especially those over 60, and can be attributed to factors such as age, obesity, previous injuries, and genetics. As the cartilage wears away, the bones of the knee joint rub more closely against each other, resulting in pain and swelling.

Traditional Treatments and Their Limitations

The conventional approach to managing knee OA involves a combination of lifestyle modifications, physical therapy, pain medications, and, in severe cases, surgery such as total knee replacement. While these treatments can be effective, they often come with limitations and potential side effects. Pain medications may only provide temporary relief and can lead to undesirable side effects, while surgery carries risks of complications and requires a significant recovery period.

Genicular Artery Embolization: A Minimally Invasive Breakthrough

Enter Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE), a minimally invasive procedure that offers a new horizon for patients with knee OA. This innovative treatment targets the genicular arteries, which supply blood to the lining of the knee joint. In patients with OA, these arteries can become hyperemic, or overly filled with blood, contributing to inflammation and pain.

GAE involves the precise embolization (blocking) of these arteries using microscopic beads, reducing blood flow to the affected area and consequently alleviating pain and inflammation. The procedure is performed under local sedation, typically takes less than an hour, and most patients can resume normal activities within a few days.

Advantages of GAE

• Minimally Invasive: Unlike knee replacement surgery, GAE is performed through a small puncture in the skin, reducing the risk of complications and shortening recovery time.
• Pain Reduction: Studies have shown significant pain relief in patients following GAE, improving their mobility and quality of life.
• No General Anesthesia: GAE is performed under local sedation, making it a safer option for patients who are at higher risk for surgical complications.

Is GAE Right for You?

Patients with moderate to severe knee OA who have not found relief with traditional treatments may be candidates for GAE. However, as with any medical procedure, a thorough evaluation by a qualified specialist is necessary to determine the best treatment approach for each individual.

Embracing Innovation

At TRA Endovascular, we are at the forefront of embracing and implementing innovative treatments like GAE to enhance patient care. Our team of specialists is dedicated to providing the highest quality of treatment, tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

In the spirit of March Madness, let’s celebrate the advances in medical technology that allow us to tackle challenges like osteoarthritis of the knee head-on. If you or a loved one are suffering from knee OA and are looking for alternatives to traditional treatments, contact us to learn more about Genicular Artery Embolization and whether it might be the right option for you.

Learn More:

• https://www.traendovascular.com/vein/genicular-artery-embolization-2/
• https://www.sirweb.org/media-and-pubs/media/news-release-archive/sir-2021-knee-pain-031621/