This article explains, in educational terms, nerve ablation for pain (rhizotomy) — how the technology works and where it fits. Common targets include the medial branch nerves supplying the facet joints of the spine, the sacroiliac region, and peripheral nerve branches such as the genicular nerves around the knee. As a medical device manufacturer, INVAMED develops technologies in this area; the information here is educational and not medical advice.
Background: Chronic Pain Managed with Interventional Radiofrequency Techniques
RF procedures are generally performed percutaneously under imaging guidance, and modern generators provide feedback on parameters such as temperature and impedance to support safe energy titration. Interventional pain management, sometimes called algology, addresses chronic back, neck, joint, and tumor-related pain that has not responded adequately to conservative measures. Common targets include the medial branch nerves supplying the facet joints of the spine, the sacroiliac region, and peripheral nerve branches such as the genicular nerves around the knee.
Nerve Ablation for Pain (Rhizotomy)
Rhizotomy is a term used for the interruption of specific sensory nerves to reduce pain transmission, and RF is one way to achieve it. By creating a thermal lesion on the targeted nerve, the technique is intended to reduce the pain signals it carries. The INVAMED Peta RFA System, Nerve supports nerve-targeted thermal lesioning across multiple spinal regions. The specific nerves treated and the extent of lesioning are clinical decisions made under imaging guidance.
Design and Technical Notes
INVAMED's pain management portfolio centres on radiofrequency lesion generators and electrode systems, organized by the anatomical target and the type of RF energy delivered. The literature commonly cites facet RF relief in the range of about 6 to 12 months, but individual duration varies and is not guaranteed. Real-time feedback on temperature, impedance, and lesion size is intended to support safe energy titration during RF procedures.
Key Considerations
- Manufacturer descriptions reflect device design intent rather than a guaranteed outcome for any individual.
- Because sensory nerves can regenerate, repeat treatment may be considered over time, based on the return of symptoms.
- INVAMED pain management devices are for use by trained pain specialists under imaging guidance and per the instructions for use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does INVAMED make a system for knee nerve ablation?
Yes. The Peta Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) for Knee Pain is positioned specifically for genicular (knee) nerve applications.
How long does RF ablation relief last?
The literature commonly cites facet-related relief of about 6 to 12 months, but duration varies by patient and target and is discussed with the treating specialist.
What feedback does the Peta RFA system provide?
INVAMED states the Peta RFA for Pain provides real-time feedback on temperature, impedance, and lesion size to support safe energy titration.
About INVAMED
Device availability and regulatory status vary by country. Please contact INVAMED or your authorized local distributor for current regulatory information applicable to your region.
Clinical and Technical Context
The INVAMED Peta Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) for Knee Pain is positioned specifically for this knee application. The choice between pulsed and thermal modes is made by the pain specialist for the specific target. Generator settings are managed by the operator according to the target and the device instructions for use. The decision to treat and the specific level targeted are determined by the pain specialist. Candidacy and target selection are determined by the treating clinician following assessment. Diagnostic nerve blocks are commonly used before radiofrequency ablation to help confirm the pain source, as judged by the clinician. Common targets include the medial branch nerves supplying the facet joints of the spine, the sacroiliac region, and peripheral nerve branches such as the genicular nerves around the knee. Real-time feedback on temperature, impedance, and lesion size is intended to support safe energy titration during RF procedures.
Important Disclaimer
This content is educational and technical in nature and must not be interpreted as medical advice or as a promise of any clinical outcome. Individual results depend on many factors and can only be evaluated by a treating physician. Figures attributed to INVAMED reflect manufacturer or published data and are not a guarantee of results. All INVAMED devices are to be used by trained clinicians per the approved IFU, and availability is subject to local regulatory status.
Reviewed by the INVAMED Medical Affairs team. Content is educational and technical in nature.