GAUCHO - Trial Genicular Artery Embolization Using Imipenem/Cilastatin vs. Microsphere for Knee Osteoarthritis: A...

Area of Science:

• Interventional Radiology
• Orthopedics
• Pain Management

Background:

• Knee osteoarthritis (OA) causes significant pain and reduced quality of life.
• Conservative treatments often fail for moderate-to-severe knee OA pain.
• Genicular artery embolization (GAE) is an emerging treatment option for refractory knee OA.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the safety and efficacy of GAE using imipenem/cilastatin versus microspheres for knee OA.
• To evaluate clinical and radiological outcomes following GAE in patients with knee OA.

Main Methods:

• Single-center, double-blind, randomized controlled trial.
• GAE performed using either imipenem/cilastatin or microspheres.
• Primary outcomes: clinical success (pain reduction via WOMAC/KOOS) at 3 months.
• Secondary outcomes: radiological success (MR imaging) and reduced analgesic use at 12 months.

Main Results:

• The study protocol outlines the methodology for comparing two embolization agents.
• Hypothesis: no significant difference in safety and efficacy between imipenem/cilastatin and microspheres.
• Detailed clinical and radiological assessments planned at multiple follow-up points.

Conclusions:

• This trial will provide crucial data on the comparative effectiveness of different GAE agents for knee OA.
• Findings will inform clinical practice regarding GAE for managing knee osteoarthritis pain.
• The study aims to establish GAE as a safe and effective treatment option.