Knee RFA is a minimally invasive treatment used to relieve chronic knee pain, particularly in patients with knee osteoarthritis or persistent pain following knee replacement surgery. The procedure works by applying targeted heat to small sensory nerves around the knee joint, interrupting pain signals sent to the brain.
Who is it for?
Knee RFA is ideal for patients who:
- Have chronic knee pain due to arthritis
- Are not suitable candidates for surgery
- Continue to experience pain after knee replacement
- Have had successful pain relief from a diagnostic genicular nerve block
How is the Procedure Done?
- The procedure is performed under xray guidance to accurately target the genicular nerves around the knee.
- A needle is placed near each targeted nerve, and a small probe delivers radiofrequency energy to heat the nerve tissue.
- The procedure is done under local anaesthetic
What to Expect After the Procedure
- Mild soreness or bruising at the injection sites is common and usually resolves within a few days.
- Pain relief generally begins within 1–3 weeks and can last 6 to 12 months or longer.
- Most patients return to light activity the same day and normal activities within a few days.
Risks and Side Effects
Knee RFA is considered very safe, with low risk of complications. Possible side effects include:
- Temporary discomfort or swelling
- Numbness or tingling around the knee
- Rarely, infection or nerve irritation