Blog and News | Northern Beaches Interventional Radiology

Non-Surgical Knee Pain Treatment: Is Genicular Artery Embolisation Right for You?

Written by Shaun Quigley | Dec 9, 2024 12:15:33 AM

For people seeking moderate chronic knee pain relief, surgery isn’t your only option. Genicular artery embolisation is a method of reducing inflammation in the knee using a catheter and real-time imaging to inject tiny particles. It helps reduce pain, but also potentially increases mobility by reducing swelling in the knee. But is it the right treatment for you?

 

When to Seek Chronic Knee Pain Relief

The sooner you get medical attention and seek chronic knee pain relief, the sooner you increase your chances of reducing your pain and discomfort. If you are experiencing mild to moderate pain on a regular basis, are finding it difficult to put weight on your leg or movement is becoming difficult, it’s time to seek our non-surgical knee pain treatment, such as GAE.

For those experiencing chronic knee pain, contacting your doctor should be your first step. They may refer you onto other treatment providers, such as an interventional radiologist for genicular artery embolisation (GAE). 

 

How GAE for chronic knee pain is assessed.

If you have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis in the knee and your doctor believes you may be a candidate for GAE, you’ll receive a referral to an interventional radiologist. They will then take diagnostic imaging, such as an MRI or angiography to help visualise your knee’s vascular anatomy and to identify the genicular arteries for treatment. This assessment will help confirm GAE may be an effective chronic knee pain relief option for you and what results you may be able to expect. 

 

Is GAE the Non-Surgical Knee Pain Treatment For You?

GAE can help many people, but not everyone. Before treatment, your doctor and interventional radiologist will assess if you’re a candidate for treatment, including if you:

  • Have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis. 
  • Are seeking a non-surgical knee pain treatment.
  • Have been unsuccessful or displeased with other treatment options.
  • Are not a candidate for knee replacement surgery.
  • Do not have significant joint deformities or need cartilage replacement.


If you believe GAE is the right option for you, please do not hesitate to contact us to book a consultation.