Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease, is a condition that affects millions of Americans and causes chronic knee pain. This degenerative condition occurs when the cartilage in the joints breaks down, resulting in bones rubbing against each other and causing discomfort and pain. Symptoms include stiffness, swelling, and aching pain that can be worsened by certain movements.
To alleviate the pain and improve mobility, one effective treatment option is genicular artery embolization (GAE). This procedure aims to reduce knee pain caused by osteoarthritis by targeting the increased blood supply that contributes to inflammation and further damage to the weakened cartilage and surrounding tissues.
Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a non-surgical procedure aimed at reducing inflammation caused by osteoarthritis in the knee by blocking blood flow to affected areas. Studies have shown that approximately 90% of patients experience improvement in knee pain after undergoing this procedure.
During GAE, a small incision is made to access the femoral artery in the thigh. Through the use of fluoroscopic guidance, a catheter is navigated to the genicular artery, with real-time imaging ensuring precision. Once in position, tiny microspheres are injected into the genicular artery, effectively blocking blood supply to the knee joint.
To ensure patient comfort, moderate sedation is administered during the procedure, which typically takes around ninety minutes. Following a brief recovery period, patients are generally able to return home on the same day.
Genicular Artery Embolization has shown promising results, providing pain relief for several years and the option of repeat treatments if necessary. Although it remains a relatively new procedure, it has gained FDA approval and is increasingly sought after by patients of MIVA Medical seeking a less invasive solution for their knee pain.
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