Berlin Doctors Trial Innovative Knee Pain Treatment

A New Approach to Treating Knee Pain

According to НВ — Техно: Researchers at Berlin's Charité hospital have tested a novel technique called genicular artery embolization (GAE) to relieve knee pain. The study, which lacked a control group, involved 194 participants with an average age of 69. During the procedure, physicians blocked abnormal small blood vessels around the affected joint using microscopic gel beads that gradually dissolve in the bloodstream. Previously, antibiotics were used for vessel blockage.

Study Results

At the start of the trial, patients reported an average pain level of 7 out of 10. After 12 months, however, this figure dropped to 3 out of 10. Researchers observed no serious side effects.

Florian Nima Fleckenstein, one of the researchers, stated: 'The method specifically targets altered vessels around the joint. This helps reduce inflammation and pain, and may even slow disease progression.'

Despite the positive outcomes, the study was conducted at a single medical center, and larger randomized clinical trials are needed to confirm the method's effectiveness.

This new treatment could represent a major advancement in managing joint diseases, particularly osteoarthritis, which often causes pain and limits mobility. However, it is important to note that current results are based on a limited patient pool, and further research will clarify its long-term efficacy and potential risks.

• Developing new therapies for knee pain sufferers could significantly enhance their quality of life.
• The method reduces the need for traditional surgical interventions.