Genicular Nerve Thermal Radiofrequency Neurotomy/Ablation

The genicular nerves supply sensation to the knee joint and are an effective target for chronic knee pain, most commonly from osteoarthritis, particularly for patients who are not yet ready for, or not suitable candidates for, knee replacement surgery. This procedure aims to reduce knee pain by interrupting these sensory nerves while preserving the knee's normal structure and movement.

A diagnostic genicular nerve block using local anaesthetic is performed first, under X-ray guidance, to confirm these nerves are significant contributors to your knee pain. Where this produces clear, if temporary, relief, thermal radiofrequency treatment is applied to the same nerves, using controlled heat to create a longer-lasting reduction in pain signalling from the joint.

For appropriately selected patients, this can provide substantial, longer-lasting relief of knee pain — often six months or more — supporting improved mobility, function and quality of life while other options are considered or in place of surgery. Dr Danesh will discuss whether you are a suitable candidate and the expected course of treatment.