Genicular Arterial Embolization (GAE) is a minimally invasive procedure used to reduce pain and inflammation in the knee or shoulder by blocking abnormal blood flow to inflamed areas. It is commonly performed for osteoarthritis-related pain when conservative treatments have not been effective.
Procedure Breakdown:
- Preparation:
- Patients may need to avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before the procedure.
- Blood-thinning medications may need to be temporarily stopped.
- A mild sedative or local anesthesia is administered to ensure comfort.
- Catheter Insertion:
- A small incision is made in the groin or wrist to insert a thin catheter into the arterial system.
- Imaging Guidance:
- Contrast dye is injected, and fluoroscopy (live X-ray) is used to guide the catheter to the genicular (knee) or shoulder arteries.
- Embolization Process:
- Tiny particles are injected into the targeted blood vessels to reduce excess blood flow and inflammation.
- This helps alleviate pain and slow the progression of osteoarthritis.
- Completion & Recovery:
- The catheter is removed, and a small bandage is applied to the incision site.
- Patients are monitored for a few hours and can typically return home the same day.
- Mild soreness may occur, but most patients experience pain relief within weeks.
GAE is a safe, effective, and non-surgical alternative for managing chronic knee and shoulder pain, improving mobility and quality of life.
