If chronic knee pain is affecting your daily life and you’ve found some relief from a genicular nerve block, a genicular nerve cooled RFA could be the next step toward lasting pain relief.
What is Genicular Nerve Cooled RFA?
Genicular nerve cooled RFA is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat knee pain, particularly when it’s related to conditions like osteoarthritis, trauma, or post-surgical pain. Using cooled radiofrequency energy, this procedure targets the genicular nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals from the knee. The cooled probe allows for the creation of a larger lesion, which results in a more effective disruption of pain signals and provides long-lasting relief compared to traditional radiofrequency ablation.
Who Can Benefit from Genicular Nerve Cooled RFA?
Genicular nerve cooled RFA is ideal for individuals with chronic knee pain who have not found lasting relief from medications, physical therapy, or other conservative treatments. It’s particularly effective for knee pain caused by osteoarthritis, past injuries, or surgery, and can be a great option for those seeking a non-surgical alternative.
What to Expect During the Procedure?
- The procedure typically lasts 30 to 45 minutes. You’ll remain awake, but a local anesthetic will be applied to minimize any discomfort. You will be sedated to ensure comfort throughout the process.
- The doctor will use ultrasound guidance to precisely locate the genicular nerves and apply cooled radiofrequency energy to disrupt the pain signals.
What Results Can I Expect?
After the procedure, you should notice a significant reduction in knee pain. The effects can last anywhere from 6-24 months, depending on your individual response. The use of cooled radiofrequency energy allows for a larger lesion, resulting in longer-lasting pain relief. Many patients report a decrease in the need for pain medications, which can help improve their overall mobility and quality of life.
What Should You Do After the Procedure?
- You may experience soreness at the injection site, but this should resolve within a few days.
- You can return to your normal activities, but it’s advisable to avoid heavy physical activity or strenuous exercise until your knee heals.
Why Consider Genicular Nerve Cooled RFA?
Genicular nerve cooled RFA provides a long-term solution for knee pain without the need for continuous pain medications or invasive surgery. The ability to create a larger lesion with cooled radiofrequency energy makes this procedure even more effective in providing longer-lasting pain relief, improving mobility, and enhancing your quality of life.
Compiled by;Rarinthorn Choomsai Na Ayuthaya, M.D. Interventional Pain Specialist
Contact us to learn more or to schedule a consultation.
Tel: 02-125-3959, 098-195-0991