Editorial Commentary: Radiofrequency Ablation for Patients With Osteoarthritis of the Knee Could Be Indicated for Patients Failing Conventional Nonoperative Treatment and Wishing to Avoid Total Knee Arthroplasty.

Abstract

Patients with knee osteoarthritis are constantly looking for ways to combat their pain and improve their quality of life. As newer treatments present themselves, it is up to the orthopaedic specialists to provide the best treatment possible. Radiofrequency ablation, usually administered by a pain management specialist, has shown to be an acceptable alternative treatment and should be considered in the management of osteoarthritis. It should be considered for patients who have failed nonoperative treatments and are not interested in pursuing total knee arthroplasty, and possibly for patients who have persistent pain after total knee arthroplasty.