Genicular Artery Embolization

If you suffer from chronic knee pain caused by osteoarthritis and want to avoid surgery, consider genicular artery embolization in White Plains, New York. Board-certified diagnostic and interventional radiologist Tate Kirk, MD, offers this cutting-edge, minimally-invasive procedure to ease your discomfort with minimal recovery time. Schedule an evaluation with Dr. Kirk by calling his office or booking an appointment online today. 

What is genicular artery embolization?

Genicular artery embolization (GAE) is an innovative treatment for knee osteoarthritis. This type of arthritis contributes to inflammation inside the joint, appearing when your knee’s cartilage cushioning wears down, and bones rub against each other.

During treatment, Dr. Kirk injects material into the blood vessels near the knee, reducing blood flow to ease inflammation and lessen knee discomfort without surgery. 

Is genicular artery embolization right for me?

If you have moderate to severe knee arthritis and prefer to avoid invasive surgery, genicular artery embolization may be for you. To find out, Dr. Kirk reviews your symptoms and medical history, examines your knees, and may order X-rays, an MRI, or other imaging procedures for your knees. He tailors a treatment that offers highly effective results.

How should I prepare for genicular artery embolization?

Follow Dr. Kirk’s instructions to get ready for genicular artery embolization. You might need to stop taking medications or dietary supplements and avoid food and drinks the morning of the procedure. Make arrangements for someone to drive you home afterward.

What happens during a genicular artery embolization procedure?

Undergoing genicular artery embolization typically takes about 1 hour. Dr. Kirk offers you a sedative and local anesthesia, so you’ll remain comfortable throughout the procedure.

He inserts a tiny needle and catheter into a blood vessel in your groin region. Dr. Kirk then injects a dye into the area, which flows through your blood vessels to make them stand out better during guided imaging. He injects a specialized material into the targeted abnormal vessels affecting your knee joint, blocking them to relieve inflammation and pain over time. 

Finally, Dr. Kirk removes the catheter, plugs the puncture location, and may place a small bandage over the treatment area.

What can I expect after genicular artery embolization?

Examples of mild side effects you may experience after genicular artery embolization include bruising or skin discoloration, which typically resolves within 2 weeks. You can go home soon after the procedure, but have someone drive you. 

Avoid intense physical activity until Dr. Kirk gives the okay, and call his office with any questions you may have during recovery. You should notice pain relief within a few weeks after the procedure and the improvement may last 1 to 2 years. The procedure can be repeated if your symptoms return.

Schedule an evaluation with Tate Kirk, MD, by phone or request one online today to learn if genicular artery embolization is right for you.