Genicular artery embolization was initially introduced to prevent recurrent bleeding into knee joint occasionally seen as a complication of knee replacement surgery. It was realized that the procedure also provided significant pain relief by blocking blood supply to the lining of the knee joint.
Targeting Knee Pain: Genicular Artery Embolization Explained
As joint disorders, especially knee pain, become more common among the larger population, Genicular Artery Embolization (GEA) has emerged as one of the most effective alternatives for addressing the issue. Knee pain is a serious problem that can hinder mobility, cause discomfort, and significantly affect one’s quality of life. If you’ve been struggling with knee pain and used traditional treatments, like knee surgery, with little success, it’s time to try GAE. A simple search of the phrase ‘genicular artery embolization clinic near me’ may be all that you need to kickstart your knee pain recovery journey.
What is Genicular Artery Embolization?
Genicular Artery Embolization is an innovative, minimally invasive procedure that specifically targets the genicular arteries, which are the primary source of blood supply to the knees. GAE blocks these arteries, reducing inflammation and alleviating knee pain. Genicular Artery Embolization is an alternative treatment option to traditional approaches like medication or physical therapy.
Knee Pain Causes and Symptoms
Knee pain can stem from various causes, including injuries, age-related wear and tear, overuse, underlying medical conditions like osteoarthritis, and muscle imbalances. Common knee pain symptoms include swelling, stiffness, instability, clicking or popping sensation, limited range of motion, discomfort while standing or walking, and sometimes varicose veins behind the knee.
Types of Knee Pain
Knee pain manifests in different ways depending on the underlying conditions. The three main categories of knee pains include:
- Acute (sudden) knee pain: Occurs due to a direct or sudden blow to the knee, leading to abnormal stretching or twisting.
- Overuse pain: Results from prolonged stress on the knee from activities such as skiing, jumping, jogging, or biking. Besides knee pain, too much stress on the feet may also cause leg swelling.
- Systematic or bodily conditions knee pain: Caused by various chronic conditions in the body.
Understanding the specific type of knee pain you’re experiencing is the first step before implementing a GAE procedure.
How Genicular Artery Embolization Works
The Genicular Artery Embolization technique uses image-guided technology to locate and block genicular arteries supplying blood to the knee. A vascular specialist inserts a small catheter into the artery and skillfully navigates it to the intended location using real-time imaging. Once located, tiny particles are injected into the artery to obstruct the blood flow, reducing inflammation and relieving knee pain.
Done as a day surgery, the procedure begins with light intravenous sedation. It takes about 45 minutes to complete the procedure. Both knees can be treated at same time. Patients are able to go resume their normal activities within a couple of days.
Who is GAE Right For?
The Genicular Artery Embolization procedure is best for individuals seeking a minimally invasive alternative to knee surgery. It’s particularly beneficial for patients with osteoarthritis, the most prevalent type of arthritis affecting the knee.
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that progresses in four stages. These range from minor, mild, and moderate to severe cartilage loss, which is the final stage characterized by limited mobility, chronic pain, and joint deformity.
Injury, overuse, genetic factors, obesity, joint misalignment, and rheumatoid arthritis or gout are the most common causes of osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis patients can find relief from GAE procedures across all stages where traditional treatments may fall short.
Difference Between Arthritis and Osteoarthritis
Arthritis and osteoarthritis are related terms often used interchangeably by many. However, there’s a clear distinction between the two terms. Arthritis refers to a broader term for various joint disorders, including osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a specific degenerative breakdown of cartilage, causing inflammation, pain, and limited mobility.
What are the Outcomes of GAE?
Genicular Artery Embolization (GEA) has shown promising outcomes in treating knee pain. However, the results vary depending on various factors, such as underlying conditions and the severity of the knee pain. Among its notable outcomes is quick recovery time compared to invasive surgeries. Those who’ve undergone GAE also report a low risk of complication as patients can resume their regular tasks almost immediately after the procedure.
The Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic Can Help
Genicular Artery Embolization (GEA) presents an innovative approach to treating knee pain. By specifically targeting the granular arteries responsible for blood supply to the knee joint, GEA offers a less invasive procedure that aims at reducing inflammation and alleviating pain, ultimately improving the patient’s quality of life. It’s a viable alternative to traditional procedures like knee replacement surgery, offering renewed hope for patients who’ve not found relief from conservative measures. If you or your loved ones are struggling with chronic knee pain, why not try this non-surgical procedure with quick recovery time and less risk of complications?
Other Health Conditions
The Supreme Vascular Clinic provides state-of-the-art care and is your “go-to” facility for various conditions and pain management. There are many vascular disease treatments and we are committed to helping you find the one that’s right for you. To learn more about genicular artery embolization and your knee condition, contact us to arrange an appointment on our website with vascular specialist, Dr. Manish Taneja, or call us at +65 6904 8084.