Comparing Effectiveness of 5-Nerve, 3-Nerve, and 2-Nerve Ultrasound-Guided Radiofrequency Ablation for Knee Osteoarthritis Pain and Balance

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the effectiveness and long-term benefits of radiofrequency ablation RFA therapy targeting different numbers of nerves to treat chronic knee pain caused by osteoarthritis. This condition, which results from joint cartilage damage with age, leads to pain, loss of balance, and increased fall risk due to impaired knee proprioception. The study aims to compare RFA applied to 5 nerves, 3 nerves, or 2 nerves to understand which protocol best improves pain, balance, proprioception, and symptoms in knee osteoarthritis. Participants will undergo a diagnostic genicular nerve block to confirm suitability before receiving RFA treatment under ultrasound guidance. Patients are randomly assigned to one of three groups receiving a single RFA session targeting either 2 nerves superior medial and inferior medial, 3 nerves superior medial, superior lateral, and inferior medial, or 5 nerves including the previous three plus recurrent fibular nerve and infrapatellar branch of the saphenous nerve. The procedure uses precise ultrasound and electrical stimulation to locate nerves and applies pulsed radiofrequency at 42C for 120 seconds per nerve, followed by an injection of betamethasone and lidocaine to reduce discomfort. Participants will be evaluated at baseline, 1 month, and 3 months after treatment. Assessments include muscle strength tests of the quadriceps and hamstrings, knee joint proprioception measurements, balance and coordination tests such as Romberg and Single Leg Tests, walking ability, fall risk scales, and quality of life questionnaires. Patients will continue their usual medication and exercise but avoid other knee pain treatments for 3 months. The study monitors safety and effectiveness through these measures over the course of the trial.

Efficacy of Ultrasound-Guided Genicular Nerve Radiofrequency Ablation Therapy