Intra-articular Pulsed Radiofrequency in Chronic Knee Pain

The Effectiveness of Intra-articular Pulsed Radiofrequency in Patients With Painful Knee Osteoarthritis

The aim of this study is to investigate the additional effect of Intra-articular Pulsed Radiofrequency (IAPRF) on pain and functional activities in addition to intra-articular steroids in patients with grade II and III knee osteoarthritis.

This randomized controlled trial included patients over 18 years of age with knee pain persisting for more than 3 months and stage II-III knee OA according to the Kellgren-Lawrence scale. The participants were randomized into two groups: the IAPRF + steroid injection (Group 1) and only steroid injection (Group 2) groups. The injections were administered under fluoroscopic guidance in both groups, and the needle was advanced to the midline of the tibiofemoral joint in the anteroposterior and lateral views. Group 1 received 8 mg of intra-articular dexamethasone after IAPRF application for 360 s at 45 V voltage, with the temperature not exceeding 42°C. Group 2 received 8 mg of intra-articular dexamethasone only. Pain intensity and participation in daily activities were evaluated using the numerical rating scale (NRS) and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities arthritis index (WOMAC), respectively, before the procedure and 1, 4, and 12 weeks after the procedure.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age > 18 years,
• Having knee pain persisting for more than 3 months due to knee osteoarthritis (OA),
• Kellgren-Lawrence Classification grades II and III OA,
• Giving written and verbal informed consents.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients with a history of undergoing knee surgery and/or receiving any intra-articular knee injection within the previous 6 months,
• Having a local or systemic infection or a coagulation disorder,
• Patients who refused to participate in the study.