Side Effects of Genicular Artery Embolization
If you've been suffering from chronic knee pain or osteoarthritis, you may have heard of Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) as a promising non-surgical treatment option. As with any medical procedure, it's essential to understand the potential side effects before deciding if it's right for you. In this blog post, we'll delve into the side effects of Genicular Artery Embolization to help you make an informed decision.
What is Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)?
Genicular Artery Embolization is a minimally invasive procedure designed to alleviate knee pain and inflammation caused by conditions like osteoarthritis. Performed by an interventional radiologist, GAE involves injecting embolic agents into the genicular arteries, which supply blood to the affected knee joint. This process reduces blood flow, thereby decreasing inflammation and pain in the joint [2].
GAE is typically recommended for patients with chronic knee pain who have not experienced relief through conservative treatments such as medication, physical therapy, or injections [2].
Common Side Effects of Genicular Artery Embolization
As with any medical procedure, GAE can cause side effects. Some of the most common side effects include:
Post-embolization syndrome: This can involve pain, fever, and nausea following the procedure. These symptoms are usually temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications [3].
Infection: As with any procedure involving an incision, there's a risk of infection. However, this risk is minimal, and preventative measures are taken to minimize it [1].
Minor bleeding: Some patients may experience minor bleeding at the injection site, which can be managed with appropriate care and attention [3].
During the recovery period, it's important for patients to follow their healthcare professional's recommendations, such as keeping the injection site clean and avoiding strenuous activities for a few days.
The Safety and Efficacy of Genicular Artery Embolization
Several clinical studies have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of Genicular Artery Embolization. A study published in PubMed reported that GAE had a 68% success rate in reducing knee pain and improving patients' quality of life after the procedure [4]. Furthermore, GAE stands out due to its minimally invasive nature and lower risk of complications when compared to alternative knee pain therapies like knee replacement surgery [1].
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Genicular Artery Embolization is a promising treatment option for those suffering from chronic knee pain and osteoarthritis. Though side effects can occur, they are generally mild and manageable. It's important to discuss your options with a healthcare professional before deciding if GAE is the right choice for you. Keep in mind that every patient's experience may be different, and it's essential to have open communication with your healthcare team throughout the treatment process.
If you're experiencing symptoms or are interested in learning more about this promising treatment option, don't hesitate to schedule a consultation with our experienced team. We specialize in personalized care, guiding you through the diagnostic process and discussing the most suitable treatment options for your specific needs. Act now and prioritize your well-being – let Indiana Vascular be your trusted partner on the path towards finding relief from chronic knee pain and osteoarthritis. Don't let pain hold you back – seek expert care and take control of your joint health today.
Sources
Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Osteoarthritis. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteoarthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351925
UCLA Health. (n.d.). Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE). Retrieved from https://www.uclahealth.org/medical-services/radiology/interventional-radiology/treatments-procedures/genicular-artery-embolization-gae
RSNA. (2021). Genicular Artery Embolization for Chronic Knee Pain: Review of the Literature and Technical Considerations. Retrieved from https://pubs.rsna.org/doi/full/10.1148/rg.210159
PubMed. (2021). Safety and Efficacy of Genicular Artery Embolization for Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34703964/
