Understanding Genicular Artery Embolization Risks

Genicular artery embolization (GAE) is an FDA-approved symptomatic knee osteoarthritis (OA) procedure.

It effectively reduces moderate to severe knee OA symptoms resistant to other, more conservative therapies like over-the-counter NSAIDs (nonsteroidal, pain-relieving, and anti-inflammatory medications), hot and cold therapies, steroid injections, and strength training.

GAE is a minimally invasive outpatient option offering longer-term pain relief for those not ready for major knee surgery, like total knee replacement. It reduces (or eliminates) the need for additional treatments like NSAIDs and injections.

However, like all medical interventions, GAE comes with benefits and risks. Understanding potential risk factors will help you and your interventional radiologist physician prepare for a safer, more comfortable procedure.

Genicular Artery Embolization Risks

While common and rare risks exist for GAE, it is essential to note that this procedure is generally considered safe for those struggling with chronic knee pain when performed by a skilled interventional radiologist (IR) physician.

Common GAE risks include

Mild to moderate pain or discomfort at the injection site
Mild to moderate bruising and swelling around the knee joint
Minor bleeding at the injection site
Temporary numbness or tingling in the leg

Rare risks include

Infection at the injection site
Allergic reaction to the contrast dye
Blood vessel damage
Nerve injury
Blood clots
Organ damage

If OA knee pain is interfering with your life on a day-to-day basis, GAE is an effective and minimally invasive alternative to open surgery.

It is crucial to consult a skilled IR physician if you have specific concerns before undergoing this procedure.

With GAE, you can return home on the same day of your procedure and return to normal daily activities, like walking, gardening, grocery shopping, or visiting loved ones, the very next day.

The Safety and Effectiveness of Genicular Artery Embolization: Research Studies

According to a systemic review and meta-analysis from Osteoarthritis and Cartilage Open, an international, fully peer-reviewed, multidisciplinary journal, GAE is a safe procedure for improving knee OA symptoms.

This procedure exceeds established minimally clinically important differences (MCID) values, a new standard for determining treatment effectiveness and patient satisfaction. MCID values represent the smallest improvement considered worthwhile in reference to a treatment.

Key Research Findings

Here are the key research findings contained within the report

GAE was technically successful in almost all cases (99.7%)
After 12 months, patients reported significant reductions in knee pain
After 12 months, patients reported improved function of the knee joint
Only minor and temporary side effects, like skin discoloration, were noted
Only 2% of patients required total knee replacement over two years
Only 8.3% of patients required repeat GAE procedures over two years

If you’ve been diagnosed with OA knee pain, genicular artery embolization (GAE) is a safe and effective osteoarthritis knee treatment option.

GAE is an FDA-approved, minimally invasive procedure that effectively reduces knee osteoarthritis (OA) symptoms, but, like all medical interventions, it comes with risks.

The IR physicians at Georgia Knee Institute are board-certified and highly skilled in minimally invasive vascular procedures. If you want to alleviate OA knee pain and get back to doing what you love, call us at 678-915-2000 or schedule an appointment today.