Genicular Nerve Ablation (GNA)
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What is GNA?
Genicular Nerve Ablation (GNA) is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure designed to reduce chronic knee pain associated with osteoarthritis. The procedure targets the sensory nerves responsible for transmitting pain from the knee joint, interrupting the pain signals before they reach the brain. Performed by an Interventional Radiologist (IR) using imaging guidance (fluoroscopy or ultrasound), GNA offers a nonsurgical alternative for patients who have not achieved relief through medications or injections.
Treatment for:
Why is it done?
Intended for patients with knee osteoarthritis who continue to experience moderate-to-severe pain despite conservative treatments like NSAIDs, corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections, and physical therapy. GNA is best suited for those seeking an alternative before knee replacement surgery or who are not surgical candidates due to age, overall health, or personal preference.
How is GNA performed?
- Diagnostic nerve block: First, a short nerve block is administered by injecting local anesthetic into the targeted genicular nerves. Significant temporary pain relief confirms suitability for ablation.
- GNA: Under imaging guidance, a cannula is placed near each target nerve. An ablation probe is introduced and turned on to ablate the nerve.
- Duration: The procedure generally takes less than an hour and is done in an outpatient setting. You can go home immediately after the procedure.
Are you a candidate for GNA?
GNA is a non-surgical treatment alternative for patients with knee pain due to osteoarthritis who have failed conservative therapy, such as anti-inflammatory medications or knee injections, and who do not wish to undergo or are ineligible for knee replacement surgery.
The following conditions make a good candidate for GNA:
- Age: Typically 40+ years old
- Osteoarthritis confirmed by imaging
- Pain persists despite at least 3 months of conservative treatment
- Positive response to diagnostic genicular nerve bloc
For More Information:
For more information or to schedule an appointment with one of our IR physicians, please call 310-481-7545.