Sonographic imaging of the genicular nerves of the knee.

INTRODUCTION

The genicular nerves are sensory nerves around the knee. With the improvements in ultrasound imaging resolution, these nerves can be identified sonographically.

TOPIC DESCRIPTION

Due to their small size, genicular nerves are often underappreciated and overlooked during routine sonographic imaging. Chronic pain associated with knee osteoarthritis, or postsurgical knee pain can be relieved by ultrasound-guided radiofrequency ablations or nerve blockades targeting the genicular nerves.

DISCUSSION

To sonographically image these nerves, or guide nerve blocks or ablations, knowledge of the sonographic anatomy, technique and normal appearances of the genicular nerves and their surrounding structures is required and is unpacked in this pictorial essay.

CONCLUSION

Enhanced knowledge of the anatomy and a systematic approach to sonographically image and assess the genicular nerves of the knee can enhance the diagnosis of pathology, nerve injury or entrapment, and sonographic guidance of interventional procedures for pain relief.