Brody Fitzpatrick; Matthew Cowling, DO; Michelle Poliak-Tunis, MD; Kathryn Miller, MD
WMJ. 2021;120(2):156-159.
ABSTRACT
Background: Genicular nerve block and radiofrequency ablation improve pain and function in patients with knee osteoarthritis. We aimed to evaluated the efficacy of these procedures and to identify factors predicting outcomes.
Methods: We conducted a chart review of 18 patients referred for these procedures from our clinic. Pain scores were collected before and after the procedure and at a follow-up visit. Functional measures were recorded before the procedure.
Results: Both procedures reduced pain in the post-procedure and follow-up settings, and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index correlated with the paired differences of pre- and follow-up pain scores.
Discussion: These procedures provided significant pain relief, and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index may help identify appropriate candidates for these procedures.