Overview

Cryoneurolysis is an innovative cold temperature therapy offered at Arizona Sports Medicine Center. This minimally invasive procedure targets pain-transmitting nerves around the knee using focused cold temperatures, providing relief without surgery for chronic osteoarthritic knee pain.

There is no medication(s) injected into the body, as the procedure uses a closed-end needle system with liquid nitrogen, creating a small ball of ice around the targeted nerve. The nerve then undergoes a process of temporary degeneration without causing permanent damage. Targeted nerves are strictly sensory nerves and the procedure does not affect motor function.

Pain relief with cryoneurolysis can be an option for many patients, including those who are relying on oral pain medications or injections to relieve their OA knee pain, those who are delaying total knee replacement surgery, patients who are planning for total knee replacement surgery but would like pain relief to perform rehabilitation prior to surgery, and also those looking to decrease pain while healing from postsurgical knee pain.

What to Expect

Before Cryoneurolysis, your physician will explain the procedure thoroughly. During treatment, targeted nerves are identified using ultrasound guidance. A small amount of anesthetic is injected under the skin and around the nerve to minimize discomfort with the freezing process. Lastly, the device tip is guided to the targeted nerve under ultrasound guidance to deliver the cold temperature therapy, temporarily disrupting pain signals. Most patients experience minimal discomfort and can resume daily activities shortly after.

Aftercare

After Cryoneurolysis, follow your physician's instructions for optimal recovery. This may include rest, ice application, and over-the-counter pain relievers as needed. Patients can experience injection site bruising and swelling, which typically subside within a week. Patients also will typically experience numbness around the knee as the sensory nerve signal is disrupted. We'll support you with follow-up appointments and personalized guidance for a smooth recovery journey.