A CUTTING-edge, minimally invasive procedure called genicular artery embolization (GAE) could offer significant relief for those suffering from knee osteoarthritis, potentially delaying or even eliminating the need for knee replacement surgery. These findings were presented this week at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA).
“This study addresses osteoarthritis, a leading cause of chronic pain and disability globally,” said the research team. “With millions affected worldwide, especially in aging populations, finding effective treatments is critical.”
Knee osteoarthritis, the most common form of chronic joint disorders, affects over 365 million adults globally, according to the World Health Organization. Existing treatments, such as pain medications and steroid injections, only mask symptoms without slowing the disease’s progression. For many, knee replacement surgery becomes the last resort as the condition worsens.
GAE is an innovative solution targeting the inflamed blood vessels around the knee joint. During the procedure, an interventional radiologist injects small particles into affected arteries, blocking blood flow and disrupting the cycle of inflammation, cartilage destruction, and sensory nerve growth linked to osteoarthritis.
The research team analysed 403 cases involving patients aged 40 to 90 with moderate to severe knee osteoarthritis unresponsive to traditional treatments. The study evaluated GAE’s safety and efficacy through pain and quality-of-life metrics, measured at six weeks, three months, six months, and one year post-procedure.
The results were promising. Technical success was achieved in all procedures, with minor side effects, such as temporary skin discolouration and mild knee pain, reported in 18% of cases. At one year, patients reported a 71% improvement in pain and an 87% improvement in quality of life.
“Our study found that GAE can significantly reduce knee pain and enhance quality of life, particularly for those who haven’t found success with other treatments,” said the authors. “Early intervention appears especially effective, potentially delaying disease progression and reducing the need for surgery.”
Researchers hope these findings will encourage broader adoption of GAE, which could improve lives, lower healthcare costs, and reduce reliance on invasive procedures. Future studies aim to further explore this promising treatment’s potential in tackling degenerative joint disorders.
Victoria Antoniou, EMJ
Reference
Fleckenstein FN et al. Minimally invasive procedure relieves knee arthritis. RSNA Annual Meeting, 1–5 December, 2024.
