Geniculate artery embolization is an innovative and minimally invasive procedure that can be used to treat symptoms from knee hemarthrosis and knee osteoarthritis.  This outpatient treatment is performed by a qualified interventional radiologist, like Dr. Ali Golshan, a leading vascular expert who specializes in nonsurgical vascular treatments.

In geniculate artery embolization, precise imaging guidance is used to block capillaries around the knee joint. This causes blood flow to be reduced and leads to immediate and long-term pain relief to the affected joint. This procedure is a great option for some people who are looking for effective treatment, without having to undergo invasive surgery.

How does Geniculate artery embolization work?

For this procedure, a fine needle is used to make a small puncture near the groin. Unlike invasive surgery, no incision is needed and no general anesthesia is needed.

Through the needle, a small catheter, or hollow tube, is placed in the arteries around the knee, using precise imaging guidance. Once in place, the treating physician is able to inject tiny particles which embolize, or block, the capillaries around the lining of the knee joint.

The embolization causes a reduction in blood flow, which can resolve bleeding into the knee joint from knee hemarthrosis and reduce inflammation from osteoarthritis. For many people, this treatment offers immediate relief and long-lasting resolution of pain and inflammation.

The procedure usually only takes between 45 minutes to an hour and a half. Patients are able to go home the same day as the procedure.