What is Radiofrequency Ablation?

Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that uses heat generated by radio waves to target and disrupt pain-transmitting nerves in the knee. By preventing these nerves from sending pain signals to the brain, RFA offers significant and lasting relief for individuals suffering from chronic knee pain due to osteoarthritis.

Benefits of Radiofrequency Ablation

✔ Minimally Invasive – No major incisions, resulting in a quicker recovery.

✔ Long-Lasting Pain Relief – Many patients experience relief for six months to a year.

✔ Improved Mobility – Less pain allows for better movement and activity levels.

✔ Reduced Dependence on Medications – Helps minimize reliance on painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs.

✔ Alternative to Surgery – A great option for individuals looking to delay or avoid knee replacement.

Downsides of Radiofrequency Ablation

✔ Variable Response – Not all patients respond to radiofrequency ablation. This procedure uses a small needle to find a small nerve, which can be difficult to do.

Who is a Candidate for RFA?

Radiofrequency ablation is ideal for individuals who:

• Have chronic knee pain from osteoarthritis.

• Have not found relief from physical therapy, medications, or injections.

• Are not ready for or eligible for knee replacement surgery.

Knee Treatment Research Group Opinion

Radiofrequency ablation is the most non-invasive option available. However, it has varying results and the shortest amount of pain-relief. The procedure utilizes a very small needle that heats up an area of 3-4mm. This needle needs to be placed directly next to the geniculate nerve, a structure that is only 2-3 mm itself. Due to the small area of the needle and the small area of the nerve it is difficult to get the needle in the right spot. It is my experience that even with image guidance there is a large variation in patient response to RFA, likely due to misplacement of the needle. In addition, the heat only puts the nerve to sleep and the nerve will return within 6-12 months. RFA, however, may be best for a very high-risk patient who has failed injections.

In general, RFA has a more sporadic response and is shorter-acting for pain relief than geniculate artery embolization or surgical knee denervation.

Scientific Evidence

Multiple research articles have shown that RFA provides longer lasting pain relief than corticosteroid injections or viscosupplementation.