Osteoarthritis knee pain management: radiofrequency denervation

The table succinctly presents the NICE guidance on radiofrequency ablation for osteoarthritis (OA) knee pain. It highlights the nature of osteoarthritis, the multifaceted treatment options, and the specifics of the radiofrequency procedure. The guidance underscores the procedure's efficacy in short-term pain relief and its known safety profile, providing valuable insights for clinicians considering this treatment option.

Section	Description
The Condition	• Osteoarthritis (OA): Marked by cartilage loss, bone remodelling, and inflammation. • Most Affected Joints: Knees are commonly affected. • Main Symptom: Pain. • Treatments: Range from non-pharmacological (like physiotherapy) to pharmacological (e.g., analgesics) to surgical (e.g., knee arthroplasty). • Procedure Process: Involves a diagnostic nerve block under guidance. If successful, candidates proceed to radiofrequency denervation.
Procedure Details	○ Technique: A probe is used at the treatment site targeting nerves like genicular, saphenous, or articular cavity. ○ Method: Radiofrequency energy, which can be conventional, cooled, or pulsed, is employed to denervate the nerves. ○ Objective: To alleviate pain and postpone the need for knee arthroplasty.
Committee Comments	• Evidence shows short-term pain relief • Safety: No significant concerns; known complications include numbness. • Duration: Typical pain relief lasts under 2 years...

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