Genicular Nerve Ablation (RF Neurotomy)

Genicular Nerve Ablation is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure that uses radiofrequency (RF) energy to interrupt pain signals from the genicular nerves—small nerves surrounding the knee joint. This treatment is designed for patients with chronic knee pain, often from arthritis or prior knee surgery, who have not achieved relief with medications, injections, or physical therapy. By deactivating these nerves, the procedure can significantly reduce knee pain and improve mobility and daily function.

Quick Facts

  • Setting: Outpatient, image-guided
  • Time: ~30–45 minutes
  • Anesthesia: Local with optional light sedation
  • Recovery: Same-day discharge; mild soreness may last 1–3 days
  • Duration of relief: Typically 6–12 months, sometimes longer

Who It Helps

  • Chronic knee pain from osteoarthritis
  • Persistent knee pain following total or partial knee replacement
  • Patients who received temporary relief from genicular nerve blocks
  • Individuals not ready for surgery or unable to undergo surgical procedures

How It Works

Genicular nerves transmit pain signals from the knee to the brain. During the procedure, your provider uses fluoroscopic (X-ray) or ultrasound guidance to position small RF probes near the targeted genicular nerves. Controlled radiofrequency energy heats and deactivates these nerves, stopping them from sending pain signals. The structural integrity of the knee joint is unaffected—only the sensory nerves are targeted.

What To Expect

  • Before: Your provider will review your medical history and confirm candidacy based on results from diagnostic genicular nerve blocks. Certain medications may need to be paused prior to treatment.
  • During: You’ll lie comfortably while the skin around the knee is cleaned and numbed. Using imaging guidance, the provider positions tiny electrodes near the genicular nerves and applies brief RF energy to deactivate pain-transmitting fibers.
  • After: You can return home the same day. Mild soreness or swelling may occur for a few days. Pain relief typically develops over 2–4 weeks as the nerves fully deactivate.

Benefits & Risks

Benefits:

  • Long-lasting knee pain relief
  • Minimally invasive with short recovery time
  • Reduces dependence on pain medications
  • May delay or eliminate the need for knee replacement

Risks:

  • Temporary soreness or bruising
  • Nerve irritation or increased pain before improvement
  • Infection or bleeding (rare)
  • Numbness around the treated area (usually temporary)

Is It Right For Me? (Checklist)

  • ✅ Chronic knee pain from arthritis or prior surgery
  • ✅ Significant but temporary relief from diagnostic nerve blocks
  • ✅ Poor response to injections, therapy, or medications
  • ✅ Seeking minimally invasive, nonsurgical pain relief

Alternatives At PCET

FAQs

  • How long does relief last? Most patients experience relief for 6–12 months; results vary based on severity of arthritis and activity level.
  • Will my knee feel numb? Some temporary numbness near the treatment sites is normal but usually resolves.
  • Can the nerves grow back? Yes—genicular nerves may regenerate over time, which is why pain can return, but the procedure can be repeated.
  • Does this affect knee function? No—the procedure targets sensory nerves only and does not impact strength or mobility.
  • Is it covered by insurance? Most major insurance plans, including Medicare, cover RF neurotomy when medically indicated.

What Happens Next?

After Genicular Nerve Ablation, your provider will review how your knee pain responds over the following weeks and whether you notice improvement in comfort, mobility, or daily activities.

If you experience meaningful relief, your provider may discuss follow-up care, physical therapy, functional rehabilitation, or whether the procedure could be repeated if pain returns over time.

If you do not get the relief you were hoping for, that does not mean you are out of options. Your provider may reassess whether your pain is coming from another source or whether a different treatment path may be more appropriate.

Possible next steps may include:

  • Reviewing your symptoms and imaging again
  • Evaluating other possible pain sources
  • A different injection or procedure
  • Physical therapy or functional rehabilitation
  • Other treatment options available through PCET

The goal is to better understand your knee pain and determine the next best step for your care.

📞 Call to Schedule

If chronic knee pain is limiting your daily activities, Genicular Nerve Ablation may offer long-lasting relief. Call us at 865-934-2567 to schedule your appointment today.