Genicular Artery Embolization for Symptomatic Knee Osteoarthritis: A Comprehensive Review of Techniques and Clinical Outcomes
摘要
Symptomatic knee osteoarthritis is the most common joint disorder worldwide. Genicular artery embolization (GAE) is a minimallyinvasive therapy targeting abnormal knee neovascularity and inflammation, with potential to alter management paradigms. Thisreview summarizes key evidence on its rationale, techniques, outcomes, and the need for standardization.
Materials and MethodsPeer-reviewed studies on GAE for knee osteoarthritis were assessed for patient selection, procedural technique, embolic agents, andreported outcomes.
ResultsGAE consistently achieved high technical success and short- to mid-term pain reduction, with improved VAS, WOMAC, and KOOSscores. Temporary and permanent embolic agents provide comparable results. Variability in vessel targets, embolic size, and periproceduralprotocols limits direct comparisons and pooled analysis. Reported adverse events are uncommon, generally mild, andself-limited.
ConclusionsGAE offers a promising, image-guided option for symptomatic knee osteoarthritis. Standardized procedural methods, uniformoutcome reporting, and robust multicenter trials are needed to confirm long-term safety and efficacy, optimize patient selection, anddefine GAE’s role in osteoarthritis management.