GAE Treatment for Knee Pain – Long Description
If you are struggling with persistent knee pain due to osteoarthritis and want to avoid or delay knee replacement surgery, Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) may be an effective treatment option. GAE is an advanced, minimally invasive procedure performed by an interventional radiologist to reduce pain and inflammation in patients with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis.
During the procedure, a tiny catheter is inserted through a small puncture in the wrist or groin and guided to the arteries supplying the inflamed lining of the knee. Small embolic particles are then injected to reduce abnormal blood flow, helping decrease inflammation and relieve chronic knee pain. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, requires no major incision, and is typically completed as a day-care treatment.
GAE offers several benefits, including reduced knee pain, improved joint function, shorter recovery time, minimal scarring, and a quicker return to daily activities compared to surgical procedures. It is particularly suitable for patients who have not experienced adequate relief from medications, physiotherapy, injections, or those who are not ideal candidates for knee replacement surgery.
Before recommending GAE, the specialist will perform a comprehensive evaluation, including a medical history review, physical examination, and imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI scans to determine whether you are a suitable candidate. A personalized treatment plan is then developed based on the severity of your knee osteoarthritis and your overall health.
Choosing GAE treatment for knee pain provides a safe and innovative approach to managing chronic knee pain while preserving the natural knee joint. With advanced imaging guidance, experienced interventional radiologists can perform the procedure with high precision, helping patients achieve long-lasting pain relief, improved mobility, and a better quality of life without major surgery.