Is Genicular Artery Embolization Right for Bone-on-Bone Knee Arthritis?

Living with bone-on-bone knee arthritis can be incredibly challenging. This condition occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones in your knee wears away completely. Without this cartilage, the bones in your joint rub against each other, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and inflammation. These symptoms can make simple tasks like walking, climbing stairs, or even standing for long periods uncomfortable or impossible.

Understanding bone-on-bone knee arthritis and the treatment options available is an important step toward managing your symptoms and improving your quality of life. For many, Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) offers a promising, minimally invasive solution worth exploring.

What Causes Bone-on-Bone Knee Arthritis?

Bone-on-bone arthritis, also known as end-stage osteoarthritis, typically develops over time as cartilage gradually breaks down. Several factors can contribute to this progression, including:

• Age: The risk increases as you get older.
  
• Excess weight: Added pressure on the knee joints can accelerate cartilage loss.
  
• Previous injuries: Knee injuries can damage cartilage and lead to earlier arthritis.
  
• Repetitive stress: Jobs or activities that place frequent strain on the knees may contribute to cartilage wear.
  
• Genetics: Family history can play a role in arthritis development.
  

Over time, as cartilage erodes, the bones in the joint come into direct contact, leading to the hallmark pain and stiffness of bone-on-bone arthritis.

Common Symptoms of Bone-on-Bone Knee Arthritis

People with bone-on-bone arthritis often experience:

• Significant knee pain during movement or at rest
• Swelling and inflammation around the joint
• Reduced range of motion and flexibility
• A grinding or popping sensation in the knee
• Difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg
  

These symptoms can significantly limit daily activities and lower your overall quality of life.

What Is Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)?

Genicular Artery Embolization is a minimally invasive procedure that can help reduce knee pain associated with bone-on-bone arthritis. Instead of replacing the joint or removing bone, GAE works by targeting the small arteries that supply blood to the inflamed areas of your knee. By reducing blood flow to these areas, inflammation and pain decrease.

How GAE Works

During GAE, a specialist uses imaging guidance to insert a thin catheter through a small incision, usually near the groin. The catheter is carefully threaded to the genicular arteries, which supply blood to the knee joint. Tiny particles are then released into these arteries to block the flow of blood to the inflamed areas.

This process reduces inflammation and helps relieve pain. Because GAE focuses on blood supply rather than the joint structure itself, it avoids the need for large incisions or joint replacement.

Benefits of GAE for Bone-on-Bone Arthritis

Many patients find GAE appealing because it offers several advantages compared to more invasive options:

• Minimally invasive: No large incisions, minimal scarring, and a lower risk of complications.
  
• Pain relief: Many patients report substantial reduction in knee pain within weeks of the procedure.
  
• Short recovery time: Most people can return to light activities within a few days.
  
• Delays or avoids surgery: For some, GAE can delay the need for knee replacement surgery.

Who Might Benefit from GAE?

GAE is often recommended for people who:

• Have moderate to severe knee pain that has not improved with medications, physical therapy, or injections
  
• Want to avoid or postpone knee replacement surgery
  
• Have been diagnosed with bone-on-bone arthritis but still have sufficient blood flow to allow for the procedure
  

Not everyone is a candidate. A thorough evaluation, including imaging studies, will help determine if GAE is right for you.

What to Expect During the GAE Procedure

The GAE procedure typically takes one to two hours. You’ll receive local anesthesia at the catheter insertion site and may be given mild sedation to help you relax.

The specialist will:

1. Make a small incision, usually near the groin.
2. Insert the catheter and guide it to the genicular arteries using imaging technology.
3. Release tiny embolic particles to block the targeted blood vessels.
4. Remove the catheter and apply a bandage to the insertion site.
   

You’ll be monitored for a few hours after the procedure before going home the same day.

Recovery After GAE

Recovery is generally quick compared to surgical alternatives. You may experience mild soreness at the insertion site, but this usually resolves within a few days.

Most patients can:

• Return to normal light activities within a few days
• Gradually increase activity levels as comfort allows
• Attend follow-up appointments to monitor progress
  

Your doctor will provide specific instructions on caring for the insertion site, activity restrictions, and any warning signs to watch for.

Risks and Considerations

Like any medical procedure, GAE carries some risks. 

Potential complications may include:

• Minor bruising or bleeding at the catheter site
• Allergic reaction to x-ray contrast
• Very rarely, damage to the blood vessels being worked on
  

Your healthcare provider will review these risks with you and answer any questions before scheduling the procedure.

How GAE Compares to Other Treatments

It’s important to understand how GAE stacks up against other options:

• Medications: Pain relievers can reduce symptoms but do not address the source of inflammation.
  
• Injections: Corticosteroids offer temporary relief but may become less effective over time.
  
• Physical therapy: Helps strengthen muscles and improve function but may not be enough for advanced arthritis.
  
• Knee replacement: A highly effective option for end-stage arthritis, but it involves major surgery and a longer recovery.
  

GAE provides an intermediate option for those looking to avoid or delay knee replacement while gaining meaningful pain relief.

Taking the Next Step: Schedule Your Consultation

If you are living with bone-on-bone knee arthritis and want to explore alternatives to joint replacement, Genicular Artery Embolization may be the solution. This innovative, minimally invasive procedure could help reduce your pain, improve mobility, and enhance your quality of life, all without major surgery.

At United Knee Centers, our specialists are here to guide you through your options and develop a personalized treatment plan that fits your needs and goals.

Take the first step toward lasting relief. Contact United Knee Centers today to schedule your consultation and learn if GAE is right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions