Percutaneous Transcatheter Genicular Embolization in Osteoarthritis
Masarykova Nemocnice v Usti nad Labem, Krajska Zdravotni a.s.
20 participants
Feb 2, 2026
INTERVENTIONAL
Summary
This clinical study investigates a minimally invasive treatment called percutaneous transcatheter embolization of knee arteries for patients with chronic knee pain caused by advanced knee osteoarthritis or persistent pain after total knee replacement. Osteoarthritis of the knee is a common degenerative condition that can lead to long-term pain, reduced mobility, and decreased quality of life, and some patients do not achieve sufficient relief with standard treatments. The study is based on the hypothesis that targeted embolization of small arteries supplying the inflamed tissues of the knee can safely reduce abnormal blood flow associated with inflammation, leading to pain relief and improved knee function. During the procedure, a thin catheter is guided through the blood vessels to the affected area of the knee, where a temporary embolic agent is administered to reduce pathological blood supply. The aim of the study is to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of this procedure by assessing changes in pain intensity, knee function, and quality of life over a follow-up period of up to 24 months. The results of this study may help determine whether this minimally invasive approach can offer a new treatment option for patients who have limited alternatives for managing chronic knee pain
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria5
- Adults aged 40 to 80 years
- Clinical symptoms consistent with chronic knee pain
- Radiographically confirmed knee osteoarthritis of Kellgren-Lawrence grade II-IV or persistent knee pain following total knee arthroplasty
- Insufficient pain relief after standard conservative treatment (e.g., pharmacological therapy, physical therapy, or injections)
- Ability to understand the study procedures and provide written informed consent _ Willingness and ability to comply with the study procedures and follow-up schedule
Exclusion Criteria7
- Active local or systemic infection
- Known coagulation disorders or ongoing anticoagulation that cannot be safely interrupted
- Significant peripheral arterial disease affecting the lower limbs
- Known allergy or contraindication to iodinated contrast agents
- Severe renal impairment
- History of fibromyalgia or other generalized chronic pain syndromes that may confound pain assessment
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
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Interventions
The procedure will be performed in the angiography room under local anesthesia. After puncturing the common femoral artery, a microcatheter will be inserted into the arterial branches supplying the knee joint and DSA will be performed. The target lesions have a typical "blush" appearance representing pathological neovascularization. Embolization will be performed by applying a suspension of Imipenem/Cilastatin dissolved in saline with a contrast agent until flow in the target branch is stopped.
Locations(1)
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NCT07361198