Ideal candidates for GNRFA are patients who:

• Suffer from chronic knee pain due to osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease.
• Have failed conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or injections.
• Have persistent pain even after joint replacement, or wish to avoid surgery altogether.
• Show a positive response to a diagnostic nerve block (temporary pain relief after injection).
• Are in good overall health and have realistic expectations about outcomes.

Before the procedure, patients undergo a comprehensive consultation that includes:

• A review of medical history and previous treatments.
• Assessment of pain patterns and functional limitations.
• Undergoing imaging tests (usually a CT angiogram) to plan the procedure.
• Consideration of diagnostic nerve block results.

Key features of the procedure include:

• Outpatient basis – patients return home the same day.
• Local anesthesia – avoiding the risks of general anesthesia.
• Minimal recovery time – most patients resume daily activities within days.
• Lower costs – compared to surgical interventions.

• You will be positioned on your back with the knee slightly bent.
• The skin around the knee will be cleaned with antiseptic solution.
• A diagnostic nerve block is performed to confirm the pain source. If pain reduces by ≥50%, ablation proceeds.
• Under fluoroscopic or ultrasound guidance, thin cannulas are advanced to the target nerves.
• A local anesthetic is applied, followed by insertion of a radiofrequency electrode.
• Controlled radiofrequency energy is delivered to selectively disrupt the genicular nerves.
• The cannulas are removed, and a small dressing is applied.

The entire process typically takes less than an hour.

Patients are monitored briefly and discharged the same day. Mild soreness or muscle spasms may occur but usually resolve quickly.

Instructions include:

• Keeping the incision site clean and dry.
• Applying ice packs for comfort.
• Avoiding heavy activity for 24–48 hours.
• Gradually resuming walking and light exercise.

• Pain relief usually develops within a few days to weeks.
• Relief may last 6–12 months or longer, depending on the patient.
• Normal activity can usually resume the following day.
• Some patients may require repeat treatment if nerves regenerate.

Tips for Recovery

• Rest on the day of the procedure; increase activity gradually.
• Use ice packs for swelling.
• Take prescribed or recommended medications as directed.
• Engage in physical therapy or gentle exercise, if advised, to maintain joint function.