New Knee Osteoarthritis Solution at Espada Vascular!

We’re excited to announce that Dr. Jeffrey M. Martinez is now offering Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)—a groundbreaking, minimally invasive treatment for knee osteoarthritis pain.

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Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) Treatment in San Antonio

WHAT IS OSTEOARTHRITIS?

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common orthopedic disease that involves the breakdown of the protective cartilage that cushions the area between bones. This causes changes in the bone structure, deterioration of the connective tissue holding the joint together, and inflammation in the surrounding areas. As the erosion of bone and damaging of soft tissue progress, patients experience chronic swelling, pain, loss of mobility and growing muscle weakness. Furthermore, as these processes occur, new blood vessels are formed in the lining of the knee joint which results in pain and ongoing inflammation. OA is a degenerative disorder that worsens over time, often resulting in chronic pain and discomfort. Pain and stiffness can become severe enough to make daily tasks difficult. Untreated OA is known to cause a variety of secondary health problems.

SYMPTOMS OF OSTEOARTHRITIS

  • Pain during or after movement
  • Stiffness that may be most noticeable upon awakening or after inactivity
  • Tenderness after applying light pressure to or near the affected joint
  • Reduced range of motion and loss of flexibility
  • Hear popping or cracking when using the affected joint
  • Swelling caused by soft tissue inflammation around the joint

WHAT IS GENICULAR ARTERY EMBOLIZATION?

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a safe, effective, and minimally invasive procedure that provides long term pain relief for patients suffering from osteoarthritis of the knee. The goal of the treatment is to obliterate the abnormal new blood vessel formation in the knee which is causing pain and inflammation. This procedure can delay the need for knee replacement surgery and potentially eliminate the need for invasive surgery. This treatment is performed by a vascular specialist who is specially trained to do minimally invasive x-ray guided procedures.

HOW IS IT DONE?

Patient is placed under conscious “twilight” sedation for added comfort. This type of anesthesia allows patients to return home the same day.
A physician uses x-ray guidance to place a small catheter in the patient’s upper thigh or foot area to access the artery.
The small catheter is guided to the arteries supplying blood to the tissues surrounding the diseased knee.
Once the small catheter is in place, tiny micro particles are slowly injected to slow the blood supply to the affected joint.
Inflammation occurring around the knee is significantly reduced and patients quickly experience pain alleviation

ARE YOU A CANDIDATE FOR GAE?

  • Between 40-80 years of age
  • Moderate to severe knee pain
  • Diagnosed with osteoarthritis
  • Local knee tenderness
  • Persistent pain after conservative treatment with joint injections, physical therapy, and NSAIDS

RECOVERY AND OUTLOOK

The procedure itself generally takes about an hour. Post procedure patients are advised to refrain from partaking in high-impact activities for 2-3 days but require no further treatment. Within 2 weeks, patients experience substantial pain relief as inflammation in the lining of the knee subsides.

OSTEOARTHRITIS SYMPTOM ASSESSMENT

This short questionnaire will help us understand how osteoarthritis may be affecting your joints and daily activities. Please answer each of the questions below.
Note: This assessment is not a substitute for professional medical evaluation. If you have concerns about your joint pain, stiffness, or mobility, please consult your healthcare professional or contact us to schedule an appointment.

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