Get the Relief You Deserve With Our Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) Treatment

Knee Pain in the US:

100 million Americans suffer from chronic
pain
One-third of all Americans report
experiencing knee pain at some time or
another
Knee pain is the second most common
cause of chronic pain
Knee pain is often the result of too much
weight on the knee
Another leading cause of knee pain is
improper technique during activity
Between 15 and 20% of all men are afflicted
with knee pain

Most common causes:

Osteoarthritis
Ligament strains and sprains
Overuse
Post Surgical Knee Pain (TKA)
Gout
Obesity
Knee injuries can happen in sports,
recreational activities, slips and
falls, auto accidents, or some other
freak accident

One of Our Methods to Find Relief:

At Integrated Pain Specialists we use Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is an innovative treatment for chronic knee pain, especially effective for patients with osteoarthritis. Chronic knee pain affects millions of Americans, with osteoarthritis, ligament injuries, and overuse being among the leading causes.

While traditional treatments often focus on symptom management, GAE targets the underlying inflammatory processes that contribute to pain. By selectively blocking abnormal blood vessels that cause excessive blood flow, GAE helps reduce inflammation, providing relief akin to adjusting a garden hose to prevent flooding in a garden.

What You Need to Know About GAE

Understanding The Problem

“Think of your knee like a garden. If one part of the garden gets too much water, it can become flooded and unhealthy. In your knee, too much blood flow can cause swelling and pain.”

“GAE is a simple procedure that helps fix this problem. We find the blood vessels that are causing the excess flow and gently reduce their activity. It’s like adjusting a hose to let just the right amount of water through, so your knee can calm down.”

What Is The Process?

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a minimally invasive procedure designed to alleviate chronic knee pain, particularly in patients suffering from osteoarthritis. The procedure begins with the insertion of a small catheter into a blood vessel, usually in the groin or wrist, which is then navigated to the genicular arteries that supply blood to the knee. Once the target vessels are identified, tiny particles are injected to selectively block these abnormal blood vessels. This embolization process reduces excessive blood flow to the knee, helping to decrease inflammation and pain. GAE is typically performed under local anesthesia and takes less than an hour, allowing for a quick recovery period where patients can often return to normal activities within days. By addressing the underlying inflammatory processes, GAE not only provides pain relief but also enhances the effectiveness of other therapeutic approaches.

When to Consider GAE

Consider GAE if you are experiencing chronic knee pain due to osteoarthritis or other conditions, and traditional treatments like physical therapy, steroid injections, or bracing have not provided sufficient relief. It is also suitable for patients with symptomatic grade 1-3 osteoarthritis, especially those who have already undergone knee surgeries and are seeking alternative pain management options.

How Often Do You Need GAE?

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is generally not a procedure that needs to be repeated frequently. Most patients experience significant pain relief after a single session, which can last for several months or even longer. The effectiveness of GAE can vary based on individual circumstances, including the severity of the knee condition and the patient’s overall health. Some patients may find that their symptoms remain well-managed for extended periods, while others might require additional interventions if pain recurs. In such cases, a follow-up consultation with a healthcare provider can help determine whether a repeat GAE or another treatment approach is necessary.