Neurotomy may refer to the application of heat (as in radiofrequency nerve lesioning), chemical ablation, or freezing of sensory nerves to cause their temporary degeneration, usually to relieve chronic pain.
Neurotomy and neurolysis are forms of nerve block surgery performed in cases, such as for the knee, by an outpatient procedure. [1] [2] "Neurotomy" is sometimes used as a synonym for neurectomy, the surgical cutting or removal of nervous tissue. [3]
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) uses heat generated from radio waves to disrupt sensory nerve function in anatomical structures transmitting pain sensation to the brain, such as from the back, hip, neck, or knee. [1] [2] [4] RFA is an alternative for eligible people who have comorbidities or do not want to undergo more extensive surgery, such as hip or knee arthroplasty. [1] [2] [4]
Clinical studies from 2023-25 reported that local injection of phenol was effective as a neurolytic treatment of sensory knee nerves to relieve chronic pain associated with osteoarthritis. [5] [6]