The Therapeutic Effect of Genicular Nerve Radiofrequency for Chronic Knee Pain

Background: To review the therapeutic effect of geniculate nerve radiofrequency for chronic knee pain by image guided procedures done on outpatient basis. Case: a total of 21 patients have undergone image guided radiofrequency ablation of the geniculate nerves. Study approved by the hospital ethics committee. VAS measured at baseline and at 1, 4, and 12 weeks postprocedure. Image guidance was with image intensifier, the needle was advanced percutaneously toward condyle/epicondyle shaft. The RF electrode was inserted through the needle and the electrode tip temperature was raised to 60°C for 180 seconds. One RF lesion was made for each genicular nerve.

Discussion Results: Mean patient age was 61 ± 10. VAS score before the procedures was 9 ± 1 while at 1, 4, and 12 weeks after the procedure it was 4, 3, and 2 respectively. p-Value less than 0.05.

Conclusion: Radiofrequency ablation of the geniculate nerves of the knee has significant pain reduction.

Publication History

Article published online:
09 February 2023