Chronic knee pain from osteoarthritis can severely limit mobility and quality of life. Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a minimally invasive procedure that targets inflammation in the knee joint, a major contributor to pain and swelling. Understanding the eligibility criteria for this innovative treatment can help you determine if it’s the right option to alleviate your symptoms.

What is Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)?

GAE is a non-surgical procedure that reduces knee joint inflammation by blocking abnormal blood flow in the knee joint.. Using advanced imaging, a tiny catheter delivers microscopic particles to block the abnormal blood flow in inflamed areas. This reduces pain and swelling without surgery while preserving the knee’s natural structure.

Who Benefits Most from GAE?

GAE is especially beneficial for individuals who experience chronic knee pain due to osteoarthritis, the breakdown of cartilage within the joints, and have not found relief through traditional treatments like medications or physical therapy. Individuals who experience moderate to severe pain and stiffness may be excellent candidates for advanced treatments. Typically, candidates fall within the age range of 40 to 80 and are generally healthy.

Additional key candidate profiles include:

1. Patients with Moderate-to-Severe Osteoarthritis

• Experience chronic pain and swelling that persists despite medications, physical therapy, or other conservative treatments.
• Have difficulty with daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or standing for extended periods.
• Evidence of chronic inflammation as the primary cause of knee discomfort.

• 2. Individuals Seeking a Non-Surgical Option

  • Patients who want to delay or avoid invasive procedures like knee replacement surgery.
  • Those who prefer minimally invasive treatments with shorter recovery times.
  • Individuals who may not be ideal candidates for surgery due to age, medical conditions, or personal preference.

  3. Patients Who Did Not Benefit from Injections

  • Limited relief from corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid (knee gel) injections.
  • Prefer a long-term solution that doesn’t require repeated treatments.

  4. Active Adults with Mobility Challenges

  • People looking to regain mobility and maintain an active lifestyle.
  • Patients who need effective pain relief without extensive downtime.

Who May Not Be a Candidate for GAE?

While GAE is suitable for many, it may not be the best option for certain individuals:

• Patients Without Significant Inflammation: GAE targets inflammation, so those with purely mechanical issues like ligament tears may require different treatments.
• Early-Stage Osteoarthritis: Individuals with mild symptoms may benefit more from physical therapy, PRP injections, or lifestyle changes.
• Severe Joint Deformities or End-Stage OA: GAE may not be effective if the joint damage requires structural intervention like knee replacement.

Certain Medical Conditions: Patients with bleeding disorders or severe vascular diseases may need alternative treatments.

Key Signs You’re a Candidate for GAE

Ask yourself the following questions to see if you might qualify for GAE:

• Do you have ongoing knee pain or swelling that hasn’t improved with medications or therapy?
• Corticosteroids or gel injections have provided temporary or no relief?
• Are you exploring a non-surgical solution with minimal downtime?
• Do you experience chronic inflammation confirmed by imaging or medical evaluation?

If you answered “yes” to most of these, GAE might be the ideal treatment for your knee pain.

Benefits of GAE for Eligible Candidates

• Long-Lasting Relief: Reduces pain and inflammation for months to years.
• Minimally Invasive: No incisions, stitches, or significant recovery time.
• Preserve the Natural Joint: Maintains the knee’s structure while targeting the source of pain.

Delays Surgery: Offers a non-surgical option to  knee replacement, particularly for moderate-to-severe osteoarthritis.

Discover the Power of Movement Again with USA Pain Center!

If you’re struggling with chronic knee pain, Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) may be your solution. At USA Pain Center, our specialists can determine if you’re a candidate for this minimally invasive procedure. Schedule your consultation today and discover the power of movement again with USA Pain Cente