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Genicular Artery Percutaneous Radiofrequency Thermocoagulation: A Technical Note
Jimmy Wen1, Romteen Sedighi1, Ihab Abed1
1California Northstate University College of Medicine, CA.
Pain Medicine Case Reports
|May 1, 2026
Summary
Radiofrequency thermocoagulation (RFTC) of genicular arteries offers a novel treatment for chronic knee osteoarthritis pain. This minimally invasive procedure successfully reduced pain and improved function in a patient with refractory knee OA.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Pain Management
- Interventional Radiology
Background:
- Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease causing chronic pain.
- Angiogenesis is implicated in the development of OA pain.
- Refractory knee OA presents a challenge for existing treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel application of genicular artery radiofrequency thermocoagulation (RFTC) for refractory knee OA.
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of RFTC targeting genicular arteries in knee OA.
Main Methods:
- Radiofrequency thermocoagulation (RFTC) of the superior medial and lateral genicular arteries (SMGA/SGLA).
- Procedure involved RFTC at 90°C for 90 seconds per cycle until arterial flow was absent on ultrasound.
- Patient outcomes assessed using visual analog scale (VAS), WOMAC, and Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC) at 6-month follow-up.
Main Results:
- Significant pain reduction reported (VAS score of 1).
- Marked improvement in function and quality of life (WOMAC score of 30).
- Patient reported "Very Much Improved" with no need for analgesics or bracing at 6 months.
Conclusions:
- Minimally invasive RFTC targeting the SMGA/SGLA is a safe and effective treatment for refractory knee OA.
- This approach offers a potential new therapeutic option for chronic knee pain.
- Successful application highlights the role of genicular artery ablation in managing OA pain.
