Denervation

Denervation is an additional form of treatment that can be performed on various painful joints. Naturally, the cause of the pain will not be eliminated, but the goal of the operation is for an effective, long-term switching off of that pain.

During denervation, selected pain-transmitting nerves are cut through. There are usually no skin sensitivity disorders (surface sensitivity) or paralysis since the cut nerves do not possess these functions. The result of the operation can be simulated in a test in which the patient’s hand is injected with a local anaesthetic in up to 10 positions. The patient can then determine if the pain has been reduced or completely eliminated. However, the test results do not always correspond to the actual post-operative results.

Wrist Joint Denervation

Denervation is performed under regional or general anaesthetic. Two to three incisions are required on the back of the hand as well as an incision on the inside surface of the wrist. The targeted nerves are sought and coagulated or cut through. Post-operative immobilization is not necessary.

Knee Joint Denervation

A knee joint denervation is also considered in advanced osteoarthritis or other painful conditions. A test using local anaesthetic is also carried out in advance.

More information: Partial knee joint denervation (Dellon method)