Knee pain can be excruciating and affect the quality of one’s daily life. The causes of knee pain can vary from person to person, but the most common ones are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, bursitis, tendinitis, and injuries. Knee replacement surgery has been the go-to treatment option for many years, but it may not be the only option for everyone. Knee embolization is a minimally invasive procedure that may provide an alternative option to knee replacement surgery. In this blog post, we will discuss what knee embolization is and how it works, who is a good candidate for it, the benefits and risks, and where to find it in Colorado.
What is Knee Embolization?
Knee embolization is a minimally invasive procedure that involves blocking off or closing specific blood vessels in the knee joint that are causing pain. The procedure uses tiny beads and a catheter that are guided to the affected area using x-ray imaging. The beads are then injected into the blood vessels, which stop blood flow to the affected area and relieve knee pain.
Who is a Good Candidate for Knee Embolization?
Knee embolization is suitable for individuals with chronic knee pain caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or traumatic knee injuries. The procedure is less invasive than knee replacement surgery and allows patients to keep their natural knee joint. However, it is not a suitable option for everyone. Your doctor will evaluate your medical history, perform a physical examination, and order imaging tests to determine if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure.
What are the Benefits and Risks of Knee Embolization?
The benefits of knee embolization include relief from chronic knee pain, improved mobility, shorter recovery time than knee replacement surgery, and the ability to preserve the natural knee joint. However, as with any medical procedure, there are risks involved. Risks include infection, bleeding, nerve damage, blood clots, and allergic reaction to the beads used during the procedure.
Where to Find Knee Embolization in Colorado?
If you are suffering from chronic knee pain and think knee embolization is right for you, you can find it in Colorado. Many hospitals and outpatient clinics in Colorado offer the procedure. It is important to find a provider that has experience in performing the procedure and can provide you with top-notch care. Your doctor may refer you to a specific provider or facility, or you can search for providers online and read reviews from other patients who have undergone the procedure.
Knee embolization may provide a less invasive and alternative option to knee replacement surgery for individuals with chronic knee pain caused by arthritis or injury. The procedure is minimally invasive and allows patients to keep their natural knee joint. However, not everyone is a suitable candidate for the procedure, and it comes with risks. It is important to discuss your options with your doctor and find a provider with expertise in performing the procedure. If you are considering Colorado knee embolization, many facilities offer the procedure, and you can find a provider that meets your needs.