Genicular Nerve Block and RFA

Genicular nerve block

The genicular nerves are a group of nerves that branch out around the knee joint and transmit pain signals and sensations from the knee to the brain. The word "genicular" means "relating to the knee". The four cardinal genicular nerves are named for their position relative to the knee joint:

Superolateral genicular nerve (SLGN)
Superomedial genicular nerve (SMGN)
Inferomedial genicular nerve (IMGN)
Inferolateral genicular nerve (ILGN)

Because of their proximity to the femur and tibia, genicular nerves can be targets for nerve blocks, which are non-surgical procedures used to treat chronic knee pain. During a genicular nerve block, the nerves that are thought to be causing pain are temporarily numbed or blocked to determine if they are responsible. This relief can last for about 5-8 hours.

Genicular RFA

Genicular nerve radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a nonsurgical procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to treat chronic knee pain. It's a treatment option for patients with knee osteoarthritis who have not found relief from other treatments, such as medication or surgery.

During the procedure, a special needle is used to heat and burn or stun the sensory nerves around the knee that send pain signals to the brain. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia in an office setting, but can also be done in an operating room with conscious sedation. Before the procedure, a doctor may perform a test block to numb the knee's nerves and help the patient understand how much pain relief they might experience. The procedure typically takes 15-30 minutes per knee and patients usually have little to no recovery time.

RFA can provide short-term pain relief that lasts 3-6 months, and sometimes longer. Some patients may experience relief for more than a year. Minor soreness for about a week after the procedure is normal, but other risks and complications can include: Skin irritation or sensitivity at the injection sites, Bleeding, Infection, Nerve damage, and Vascular injury