Osteoarthritis of the knee is a degenerative joint disease affecting millions by causing pain and reduced mobility. As traditional treatments often have limitations, new options are needed. Genicular artery embolization is a promising, minimally invasive procedure for those who haven’t found relief from conservative methods and are looking to avoid knee replacement.
Genicular artery embolization works by blocking specific arteries to reduce inflammation. Performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia, it offers quick recovery and immediate pain relief with effects lasting years. It’s suitable for mild-to-moderate cases and for those wanting to avoid surgery, providing a flexible, long-lasting alternative to traditional treatments. APEX Vascular is East Tennessee’s leader in genicular artery embolization.
What is Knee Osteoarthritis?
Knee osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage in the knee joint. It is the most common form of arthritis, affecting around 32.5 million people across the globe. It becomes more common as you get older, with 88% of people with knee OA being 45 or older.
Common symptoms include:
- Chronic pain
- Stiffness
- Reduced mobility
Current treatment options range from pain management with medications like acetaminophen and NSAIDs to physical therapy. In severe cases, joint replacement surgery may be required.
However, these treatments often have limitations in effectiveness or carry risks of side effects.
As the burden of knee osteoarthritis continues to rise, there is a growing interest in new treatments for osteoarthritis of the knee that can provide you with better long-term outcomes and improved quality of life.
New Treatments for Osteoarthritis of the Knee
New treatments for osteoarthritis of the knee offer hope for millions of patients. They’re particularly ideal for those seeking alternatives to knee replacement surgery or who have not responded to conventional therapies.
Genicular artery embolization (GAE) stands out as a new treatment for osteoarthritis of the knee. This minimally invasive treatment targets the root cause of pain by blocking specific arteries supplying the knee joint, effectively decreasing inflammation.
By addressing the underlying vascular component of osteoarthritis, GAE offers a non-surgical alternative if you have not responded to conservative treatments and would like to avoid knee replacement surgery.
The Genicular Artery Embolization Procedure
Genicular artery embolization offers a new option in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis. It’s performed in an outpatient center and typically takes less than an hour.
The process begins with moderate IV sedation and local anesthesia applied to the groin area. A small catheter is then inserted using a tiny needle stick in the groin and guided to the knee’s genicular arteries using X-ray imaging. Once in position, microscopic particles are injected to block blood flow to inflamed areas, reducing inflammation and pain.
After the procedure, you can usually walk within 2-3 hours and resume normal activities the next day. Recovery involves limiting strenuous activity for 7-10 days. Many patients experience significant pain relief that can last for many years. This makes GAE one of the most exciting new treatments for osteoarthritis of the knee.
Benefits of GAE
Genicular artery embolization offers significant benefits if you suffer from knee osteoarthritis. As a non-surgical, minimally invasive procedure, it reduces risks associated with open surgery. Patients typically experience quick recovery, often resuming normal activities the next day.
Many report immediate pain relief with average pain scores decreasing from 8/10 to 3/10 within the first week. 7/10 patients reported a 50%+ reduction in their pain scores during their one-year follow-ups.
The procedure is particularly suitable if you’re hoping to avoid knee replacement. It can potentially delay the need for more invasive procedures while preserving joint function. Additionally, GAE can be repeated if necessary, providing a flexible treatment option for persistent knee pain.
Choose APEX Vascular for The New Treatment for Osteoarthritis of the Knee in East Tennessee
Choose APEX Vascular for your genicular artery embolization procedure in Knoxville, Crossville, Sevierville, TN, and beyond. Our clinics are home to a team of highly experienced vascular surgeons dedicated to delivering personalized, high-quality care. We prioritize empowering you and focus on achieving the best possible outcomes.
The staff at APEX Vascular is committed to educating patients about various endovascular and surgical options, allowing for informed decision-making. Our interdisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive treatment plans tailored to your goals. Most importantly, we create a welcoming environment where you’re treated with dignity and respect.
With our patient-centered approach and expertise in vascular care, APEX Vascular stands out as East Tennessee’s top choice for the new treatment of knee osteoarthritis.
Genicular artery embolization is one of the most promising new treatments for osteoarthritis of the knee. This minimally invasive procedure blocks specific arteries to reduce inflammation, offering quick recovery and immediate pain relief. Suitable for mild-to-moderate cases, GAE provides a flexible alternative to traditional treatments, with effects potentially lasting years.
APEX Vascular is a vascular surgery and vein center with locations in Knoxville, Lenoir City, Crossville, Decatur, and Harrogate, TN. We are dedicated to delivering personalized, high-quality care that goes beyond medical treatment. Our exceptional vascular staff, boasting extensive experience in vascular surgery, works tirelessly to elevate the standards of patient care and contribute to your overall well-being. Visit us online or call us at 865-562-3232 to request an appointment today!
