Title Genicular arteries embolization for patients with osteoarthritis, their selection, and follow-up based on MRI findings
Authors Domarkienė, Aurelija ; Kalytis, Lukas ; Kanapienis, Gytis ; Kurminas, Marius ; Tamošiūnas, Algirdas Edvardas
DOI 10.3390/medicina61050941
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Is Part of Medicina (Lithuania).. Basel : MDPI. 2025, vol. 61, iss. 5, art. no. 941, p. [1-10].. ISSN 1010-660X. eISSN 1648-9144
Keywords [eng] dynamic contrast enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) ; Genicular artery embolization (GAE) ; knee osteoarthritis (OA)
Abstract [eng] Osteoarthritis (OA) is a leading cause of disability worldwide, with its prevalence rising due to aging populations. Management ranges from conservative treatments such as weight management and pharmacologic therapy to surgical interventions such as total joint replacement. However, treating moderate knee OA remains challenging for patients unresponsive to conservative care but not yet surgical candidates. Genicular artery embolization (GAE) has emerged as a minimally invasive procedure targeting abnormal angiogenesis and inflammation in OA. This article explores GAE’s mechanism, patient-selection criteria, and effectiveness in pain reduction and functional improvement. Studies suggest that GAE has the potential to significantly improve pain and function in mild to moderate OA, with sustained benefits. Patient selection is crucial for optimal outcomes, with imaging playing a key role. While conventional MRI assesses structural damage, Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) offers superior insights by evaluating synovitis, quantifying cartilage degradation, and monitoring treatment response. Due to its strong correlation with pain scores and status as the best surrogate marker for inflammation in synovitis, DCE-MRI holds significant potential to enhance patient selection and treatment monitoring for GAE.
Published Basel : MDPI
Type Journal article
Language English
Publication date 2025
CC license CC license description