By Russell Becker, DO
Knee osteoarthritis affects millions of Americans, causing chronic pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility that can significantly impact quality of life. For patients who have exhausted conservative treatments but aren’t ready for knee replacement surgery, the Vascular Center of Naples offers an innovative minimally invasive option: geniculate artery embolization (GAE).
Understanding Knee Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage cushioning the ends of bones gradually wears down over time. In the knee, this deterioration leads to bone-on-bone contact, inflammation, and the formation of abnormal blood vessels around the joint. These new blood vessels, a process called neovascularization, contribute significantly to the chronic pain experienced by osteoarthritis patients. The vessels carry nerve fibers that transmit pain signals, creating a cycle of inflammation and discomfort that traditional treatments often struggle to address.
What Is Geniculate Artery Embolization?
Geniculate artery embolization is a cutting-edge, image-guided procedure that targets the abnormal blood vessels feeding the arthritic knee joint. During the procedure, a vascular surgeon inserts a tiny catheter through a small puncture in the wrist or groin artery. Using real-time X-ray guidance, the catheter is navigated to the geniculate arteries, which are the small blood vessels supplying the knee.
Once positioned, microscopic particles are injected through the catheter to block these abnormal vessels. By reducing blood flow to the areas of inflammation, GAE decreases the inflammatory response and interrupts pain signaling pathways. The procedure typically takes between one and two hours, and patients return home the same day.
Benefits of Geniculate Artery Embolization
The advantages of GAE make it an attractive option for many knee osteoarthritis patients. The procedure requires only a pinhole-sized incision, eliminating the need for general anesthesia, large surgical incisions, or extended hospital stays. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during and after the procedure, with many returning to normal activities within days.
Clinical studies have demonstrated impressive results, with the majority of patients reporting significant pain reduction within the first few weeks following treatment. Many patients experience sustained relief lasting a year or longer, allowing them to delay or potentially avoid knee replacement surgery altogether. Unlike steroid injections, which may lose effectiveness over time and carry risks with repeated use, GAE addresses the underlying cause of inflammation-related pain.
Ideal Candidates for the Procedure
Geniculate artery embolization is particularly well-suited for patients experiencing moderate to severe knee pain from osteoarthritis who have not found adequate relief from conservative measures such as physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or joint injections. Candidates should have knee pain that significantly affects their daily activities and quality of life.
The procedure offers an excellent option for patients who wish to postpone knee replacement surgery, those who cannot undergo major surgery due to other health conditions, or individuals seeking an alternative to long-term pain medication use. During a consultation at the Vascular Center of Naples, our specialists evaluate each patient’s imaging studies, medical history, and treatment goals to determine whether GAE is appropriate.
What to Expect After Treatment
Recovery from geniculate artery embolization is typically straightforward. Patients may experience mild soreness or bruising at the catheter insertion site, which resolves within a few days. Some patients notice improvement in their knee pain immediately, while others experience gradual relief over several weeks as inflammation subsides.
Our team at the Vascular Center of Naples provides comprehensive follow-up care, monitoring each patient’s progress and addressing any concerns. Most patients can resume light activities within one to two days and return to full activity within a week.
The Vascular Center of Naples Difference
At the Vascular Center of Naples, our board-certified vascular surgeon brings extensive experience in performing geniculate artery embolization and other minimally invasive vascular procedures. We utilize state-of-the-art imaging technology and maintain a patient-centered approach, ensuring each individual receives personalized care tailored to their specific needs.
If chronic knee pain from osteoarthritis is limiting your life and you’re searching for alternatives to surgery, geniculate artery embolization may provide the relief you’ve been seeking. Contact the Vascular Center of Naples today to schedule a consultation and learn whether this innovative treatment is right for you. Our dedicated team is committed to helping you regain mobility and return to the active lifestyle you deserve.
Call us today at 239-431-5884.
1875 Veterans Park Dr. Suite 2203
Naples, FL 34109
239-431-5884
www.VascularCenterNaples.com