Who it is for
People with knee arthritis pain who are not ready for, or are not candidates for, knee replacement, and people with persistent pain after a knee replacement once other causes are ruled out.
How it works
A diagnostic genicular nerve block comes first. If it brings clear short-term relief, radiofrequency probes are placed next to the genicular nerves under ultrasound or X-ray guidance to heat and interrupt them. This is an outpatient procedure.
Evidence
Randomized trials, including comparisons with steroid injections, show meaningful pain relief for many patients for six to twelve months or longer. Results vary.
Risks
Risks include temporary soreness or numbness around the knee, bruising and infection. Serious complications are rare.
Common
questions.
Related conditions
Related treatments
From the Journal
Sources
- Davis T, et al. Prospective, multicenter, randomized, crossover clinical trial comparing cooled radiofrequency ablation with intraarticular steroid injection for knee osteoarthritis. Reg Anesth Pain Med. 2018;43(1):84.
- Choi WJ, et al. Radiofrequency treatment relieves chronic knee osteoarthritis pain: a double-blind randomized controlled trial. Pain. 2011.
This page is general information, not medical advice. Individual results vary. Medical Disclaimer