Here's the Science of the Benefits of GAE

What are the benefits of GAE (genicular artery embolization), one of the newer treatment options for osteoarthritis of the knee? While long-term data is limited, a recent study conducted at Berlin's Charity University Hospital has provided us with evidence supporting this procedure's ability to relieve knee pain and improve quality of life. Keep reading to learn more.

What is Genicular Artery Embolization?

This minimally-invasive interventional radiology procedure is available at the Georgia Knee Institute. It's designed to relieve arthritis-related knee pain by reducing blood flow to your genicular arteries (they surround the knee joint.) And blood flow is blocked when we inject small particles designed to the affected arteries. Afterward, you experience reduced inflammation and slower cartilage destruction, helping alleviate pain and slow progression of the disease.

What are the Benefits of Genicular Artery Embolization?

In our clinical practice, we see that patients experience knee pain relief, improved mobility and a better quality of life after undergoing GAE. Now, with the addition of data presented at the Radiological Society of North America, we can offer more scientific evidence to highlight the benefits of GAE.

During this study, German physicians followed 403 patients between the ages of 40 and 90 for one year after they underwent GAE at Berlin's Charity University Hospital. Each of these participants had moderate to severe knee osteoarthritis that couldn't be relieved with conservative treatment options. One year after each their successful GAE procedure, 87% of patients noted an improved quality of life and 71% reported pain reductions. Even better? Side effects associated with the procedure were minimal, and limited to 18% of participants who experienced temporary, minor skin coloration changes and/or mild knee pain, right after having GAE.

In announcing these findings, lead study author Dr. Florian Fleckenstein said, “GAE can effectively reduce knee pain and improve quality of life early after the treatment, with these benefits being maintained over the long term, especially for people who haven’t had success with other treatments like physical therapy or pain medications. This could potentially offer a new lease on life for many patients who suffer from debilitating pain and mobility issues, caused by osteoarthritis.”

Moreover, he concluded, “GAE has the potential to reduce the need for more invasive surgeries, lower health care costs and significantly improve the quality of life for countless individuals suffering from knee osteoarthritis."

Ready to explore the benefits of GAE in Georgia and see if you’re a candidate for this minimally invasive arthritis treatment? Just reach out to request an appointment with the team at the Georgia Knee Institute.