Genicular Artery Embolisation (GAE) is a modern, non-surgical treatment for patients suffering from chronic knee pain due to osteoarthritis (OA). As joints wear down over time, inflammation leads to increased blood flow in the knee lining, worsening pain and stiffness.
GAE works by blocking tiny arteries (genicular arteries) that feed the inflamed knee tissue, reducing inflammation and relieving pain without surgery. It is a safe, outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia.
At CARE CHL Hospital, Indore, Dr. Alok K. Udiya offers this breakthrough therapy for patients who are not candidates for knee replacement, or those who want to delay or avoid surgery altogether.
Key Benefits of the Treatment
GAE offers life-changing benefits for those with moderate to severe knee pain, especially when other treatments have failed:
- Minimally Invasive: Performed through a tiny pinhole, no stitches or incisions.
- Outpatient Procedure: Go home the same day.
- Fast Recovery: Resume light activities within 24–48 hours.
- Reduced Pain and Stiffness: Patients experience improvement within 1–2 weeks.
- Delays or Avoids Knee Replacement: A great option for those not ready for surgery.
- Preserves Knee Anatomy: No cutting, implant, or tissue removal.
- Safe for High-Risk Patients: Suitable for elderly or patients with comorbidities.
- Repeatable: GAE can be safely repeated if symptoms recur.
How This Treatment Works
GAE targets the overactive blood vessels that fuel inflammation in knee osteoarthritis. It reduces pain by cutting off the inflammatory cycle at its source.
1.
Initial Evaluation
Includes:
- Clinical knee examination
- X-ray or MRI to assess arthritis severity
- Review of prior treatments (NSAIDs, injections, physiotherapy)
- Pain scoring (VAS, WOMAC index)
Ideal candidates:
- Chronic knee pain (especially medial)
- Failed conservative treatments
- Moderate-to-severe OA but not ready for total knee replacement
2.
Pre-Procedure Preparation
- Basic blood tests, kidney function tests
- Fasting for 6–8 hours
- Discontinue blood thinners as advised
- Counseling on outcomes and follow-up plan
3.
The Procedure
- Performed under local anesthesia and light sedation
- A catheter is inserted into the femoral or radial artery
- Under fluoroscopy, microcatheters are navigated into genicular arteries supplying the knee
- Tiny embolic particles are injected to block abnormal blood vessels
- The procedure takes around 60–90 minutes
- No stitches or general anesthesia required
4.
Post-Procedure and Recovery
- Observation for a few hours
- Mild soreness or swelling may occur for 1–2 days
- Return to normal walking within 24–48 hours
- Full effect seen in 1–4 weeks
- Follow-up after 1, 3, and 6 months
Why Choose Dr. Alok K. Udiya for GAE?
Dr. Alok K. Udiya is among the few specialists in India trained in this innovative technique. His experience in joint pain embolisation and vascular mapping ensures precision, safety, and superior outcomes.
- One of Central India’s first to offer GAE for knee OA
- Specialized in image-guided pain interventions
- Uses latest microcatheters and embolic technology
- Works alongside orthopedic specialists and physiotherapists
- High success rate and excellent patient feedback
- Personalized rehab and lifestyle advice post-procedure
FAQs – Genicular Artery Embolisation (GAE)
Q1. Who should consider GAE?
Anyone with:
- Moderate to severe knee pain due to osteoarthritis
- Not ready for or not eligible for knee replacement
- Poor response to medications, injections, or physiotherapy
Q2. Does it involve surgery or implants?
No. GAE is non-surgical. It does not require cutting, removing tissue, or inserting any implant.
Q3. Is GAE painful?
No. It is done under local anesthesia. You may feel mild pressure or warmth, but it’s generally painless.
Q4. When will I feel relief?
Most patients report pain relief within 1 to 3 weeks, with continued improvement over months.
Q5. Will I be able to walk after the procedure?
Yes. You’ll be encouraged to walk immediately after recovery from the procedure.
Q6. Are there any risks?
Minor risks include:
- Bruising at the puncture site
- Mild knee discomfort
- Temporary leg numbness (rare)
Q7. How long does the relief last?
Pain relief typically lasts for 6–24 months. Some patients may need repeat treatment after a few years.
Q8. Will it cure arthritis?
No. GAE relieves symptoms by targeting inflammation. It does not reverse cartilage loss.
Q9. Can I delay or avoid knee replacement with GAE?
Yes. For many patients, GAE provides enough relief to postpone surgery indefinitely.
Q10. Is it covered by insurance?
Some insurers now cover GAE under interventional pain management. Our staff will assist with approvals.