# MRI-guided neurolysis for the treatment of chronic refractory knee pain: a case report

## TL;DR

A new MRI-guided chemical neurolysis technique provided significant pain relief for a patient with chronic knee pain after other treatments failed.

## Contribution

This case report introduces MRI-assisted chemical neurolysis as a novel treatment for refractory knee pain.

## Key findings

- MRI-guided neurolysis of the genicular nerve reduced chronic knee pain in a 62-year-old patient.
- The procedure provided substantial pain relief for 4 months without major side effects.
- The technique shows promise but requires further studies to confirm its efficacy and safety in broader populations.

## Abstract

Chronic refractory pain poses a significant challenge in knee joint pathologies, especially after exhaustion of conservative, arthroscopic, and endoprosthetic therapy options. This case report illustrates an innovative approach using MRI-assisted chemical neurolysis of a genicular nerve to manage persistent knee pain after arthroscopy. A 62-year-old male patient with chronic refractory knee pain, primarily localized at the inferomedial part of the knee, underwent high-resolution MRI to visualize the genicular nerves. This allowed for targeted ethanol-based neurolysis of the inferomedial genicular nerve. Following the procedure, the patient experienced substantial pain reduction for the follow-up duration of 4 months. The successful use of MRI-assisted chemical neurolysis offers a promising alternative treatment for patients with refractory knee pain, providing long-lasting pain relief without major side effects. This technique has the potential to improve the quality of life for patients suffering from chronic knee pain While these initial results are encouraging, it is important to note that further research, including both short-term and long-term studies, as well as randomized controlled trials, is warranted to establish the efficacy and safety of this treatment method in broader populations before it can be considered for routine incorporation into pain management practices.