The Intracept Procedure is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to heat and destroy small areas of damaged cartilage and bone in the knee joint. This can help relieve pain and improve function in people with early to moderate osteoarthritis.
The procedure is performed using local anesthesia, which numbs the area around the knee. Intraoperative fluoroscopy (a type of live X-ray) is used to guide the placement of the radiofrequency probe in the damaged areas of cartilage and bone.
The probe is then heated to 90 degrees Celsius for 90 seconds, destroying the tissue. The probe is then removed and the incisions are closed.
The Intracept Procedure can be performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning you won’t need to stay in the hospital overnight. You may experience some pain and swelling after the procedure, but this can be managed with oral pain medication.
Most people experience significant pain relief and improved function within 6-8 weeks after the procedure.
