Radiofrequency strategies to target peripheral large joint orthopedic pain

Partial neurotomy of painful large joints may be accomplished by radiofrequency (RF) lesioning of the articular branch innervation of these joints. Successful RF lesions of the knee and the hip are clinically useful procedures whose success depends upon the knowledge of articular branch neuro anatomy and the practitioner's optimized choice of RF probe for the procedure. Although clearly indicated for patients who may not be medically suitable for arthroplasty, the procedures may be invaluable in preserving functional mobility and providing non-opiate pain relief for many patients with articular pain including those with postarthroplasty pain. Techniques for diagnostic nerve blocks and varied approaches for anatomically optimized RF lesioning of the innervation of the hip and knee are provided.