Efficacy and safety of genicular nerve ablation techniques for knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of sham-controlled randomized trials.

Study Summary

8 randomized controlled trials including 627 adults with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis comparing genicular nerve ablation techniques with sham procedures. Pooled outcomes included pain intensity, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) function scores, patient satisfaction, and adverse events. Ablation significantly reduced pain through 24 weeks and improved function at 2, 12, and 24 weeks, although benefits were not consistently maintained at 52 weeks and patient satisfaction remained uncertain. Overall, genicular nerve ablation appears to provide clinically meaningful short to medium-term benefits with a favourable safety profile, particularly in patients whose symptoms persist despite conservative treatment.