NCT07537153 · Northwestern University
Genicular Artery Embolization for Knee Osteoarthritis
What this study is about
Patients will be asked to take part in this research study because they have mild-to-moderate knee osteoarthritis (OA) and were referred clinically for a procedure called Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE). Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones wears down over time.
View original scientific description
Patients will be asked to take part in this research study because they have mild-to-moderate knee osteoarthritis (OA) and were referred clinically for a procedure called Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE). Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones wears down over time. The symptoms of OA include pain or aching, stiffness, decreased range of motion, and swelling. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of GAE for the treatment of knee pain attributed to OA. Research participants will be in this research study for about 3 years. The study includes a screening visit, GAE procedure, and six follow-up visits. At the screening visit, a review of their medical history, demographics, and medications will be collected; physical examination will be completed; knee x-ray will be done; and two questionnaires on your knee pain will be administered. The GAE procedure will involve receiving sedation or medication to help them relax, lidocaine injected under the skin in the area of the body where catheters will be inserted into one of your arteries and then using x-ray, a catheter will be directed to the arteries supplying the lining of the knee. Then tiny microspheres will be injected into the artery to decrease the blood supply to this knee joint tissue. The follow-up visits up to 12 months will include a focused physical examination of the treated knee, documentation of medications, and two questionnaires will be administered. The follow-up visits at year 2 and 3 will include documentation of medications and any new treatments for OA as well as completion of two questionnaires. Follow-up visits maybe conducted in clinic or remotely.
Interventions
DEVICE
Embosphere Microspheres
Genicular Artery Embolization is performed by either inserting a small catheter into the artery of the upper thigh or an artery at the wrist, and with the use of x-ray, the catheter is guided to the arteries supplying the lining of the knee. Tiny particles are then injected through the catheter into these arteries, reducing the blood supply. These small particles are considered a medical device called Embosphere Microspheres. These microspheres are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States to treat hypervascular tumors; in the prostate arteries to relieve symptoms related to benign prostate hyperplasia; and to address arteriovenous malformations. The use of Embosphere Microspheres in this study is considered experimental as it has not been approved by the FDA to reduce pain associated with knee OA.
Primary outcome measures
Patient safety endpoints
Time frame: Screening/baseline, 1, 3, and 6 months
Primary safety endpoints include: 1\. Incidence and severity of adverse events (AEs). These include: 1. Non-target embolization (e.g., distal leg) 2. All transient intra- and post-procedure events (e.g., skin changes) 3. Death
Objective clinical endpoints - Cone beam computed tomography
Time frame: Immediately pre-and post-embolization
Change in enhancement on cone beam computed tomography (CT)
Objective clinical endpoints - VAS
Time frame: Screening/baseline, 1, 3, 6, 12, 24 and 36 months
Change in Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), a measurement instrument where 0 represents the minimum value (e.g., no pain) and 100 (or 10) represents the maximum value (e.g., worst imaginable pain). Consequently, higher scores indicate a worse outcome (more pain/severity), while lower scores indicate a better outcome
Objective clinical endpoints - WOMAC
Time frame: Screening/baseline, 1, 3, 6, 12, 24 and 36 months
Change in Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), a measurement instrument designed to evaluate pain, stiffness, and physical function in patients with hip or knee osteoarthritis. Higher scores on the WOMAC indicate a worse outcome (greater pain, stiffness, and functional limitations).
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Age 40-80 years
- Mild-to-moderate knee OA as determined by radiographs demonstrating Kellgren- Lawrence grade 2-3
- Self-reported pain of at least 5/10 VAS questionnaire
- Failure of conservative therapy, such as pain medications, for at least 3 months
- Patient must understand and sign the informed consent
- Patient can comply with the proposed follow-up schedule
- Patient can follow the post-operative management
Exclusion criteria
- History of rheumatoid arthritis
- Renal insufficiency precluding angiography (GFR \< 50 mL/min)
- Irreversible coagulopathy
- Previous knee arthroplasty on the intended knee
- Existing knee joint infection
- Kellgren-Lawrence grade 1 or 4
- Severe atherosclerosis as manifest by claudication and/or diminished peripheral pulses
- Life expectancy \< 6 months
- Infectious arthritis
- Allergy to iodinated contrast resulting in anaphylaxis
- Pregnant or interested in becoming pregnant three months from the date of the GAE procedure
- Involved in litigation or worker's compensation claims
Where
- Chicago, Illinois
Collaborators
Northwestern Memorial Hospital
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jul 14, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations