What Is Knee Denervation Surgery?

Surgical knee denervation is a minimally invasive procedure designed to relieve chronic knee pain after total or partial knee replacement.

Rather than focusing on the joint itself, The Institute targets the sensory nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals from the knee. By carefully interrupting these signals, our surgeons can reduce or eliminate pain while preserving strength, stability, and mobility.

For many patients, the knee replacement is structurally sound, but the pain persists due to nerve-related issues. This is where The Institute’s specialized expertise in nerve surgery makes a meaningful difference.

Want To See If You Qualify?

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Check Your Symptoms: Are You Experiencing Any of the Following?

  • Chronic knee pain lasting longer than 6 months after surgery
  • Good but temporary relief from diagnostic nerve blocks
  • Knee pain after total or partial knee replacement
  • Limited improvement despite physical therapy, medications, or injections
  • Realistic expectations about pain reduction (not complete elimination)
  • Overall good health and ability to undergo surgery

If any of these sound familiar, your pain may be nerve-related and treatable.

What Causes Knee Pain After Surgery?

It can be frustrating to hear that your knee replacement “looks fine” while you’re still living with pain. In many cases, the issue isn’t the joint, it’s the nerves surrounding it.
Irritated or Damaged Sensory Nerves
Neuroma Formation (Scar Tissue Around Nerves)
Misfiring Pain Signals
Inflammation Affecting Nearby Nerve Pathways

During or after knee replacement, small sensory nerves can become irritated or injured. These nerves may continue sending pain signals even when the joint itself is functioning properly.

As the body heals, scar tissue can form around nerve endings, creating what’s known as a neuroma. This can lead to persistent, localized pain that doesn’t respond to traditional orthopedic treatments.

Sometimes, nerves continue to send pain signals even after the original issue has been corrected. This “miscommunication” can make it feel like something is still wrong inside the knee.

Ongoing inflammation in the knee area can irritate surrounding nerves. This can amplify pain signals and contribute to chronic discomfort long after surgery.

Find Out If You’re Eligible for Knee Denervation Surgery in Florida

See How We’re Changing Lives,
One Patient at a Time

Dr. Michael Rose Explains Knee Denervation for Chronic Knee Pain
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Knee denervation can help reduce chronic knee pain by targeting the nerves responsible for pain signals.
How Glen Beat a Double Sports Hernia
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"From the day I had surgery to now - it's a world away."

What Are the Benefits of Knee Denervation Surgery?

Patients often come to The Institute after exhausting other options. For the right candidate, knee denervation can offer:

  • Enhanced mobility: Move more comfortably and confidently

  • Improved quality of life: Return to daily activities with less limitation

  • Reduced reliance on medications: Minimize or eliminate ongoing pain management

A recent study on 21 knee denervation patients found that 92% had experienced a reduction in pain, 75% had an improvement in function, and 83% reported an overall enhanced quality of life.

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Am I a Candidate for Knee Denervation Surgery?

You may be a strong candidate if:

  • Chronic knee pain continues after knee replacement

  • Daily activities are limited by discomfort or stiffness

  • Diagnostic nerve blocks provided temporary relief

  • Previous treatments have not resolved your symptoms

  • You are seeking an alternative to additional major surgery

The most important step is a comprehensive evaluation. Our team will review your history, imaging, and response to prior treatments to determine if your pain is nerve-related.

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Considering Knee Denervation Surgery? What to Expect:

1. Comprehensive Evaluation
Your journey begins with a detailed assessment, including imaging, medical history, and diagnostic nerve blocks to confirm the source of pain.
2. Outpatient Procedure
Knee denervation is typically performed in 1–2 hours using either general anesthesia or sedation. Small incisions allow precise access to targeted nerves.
3. Precision Nerve Treatment
Using advanced mapping techniques, our surgeons identify and treat pain-generating nerves while preserving those responsible for movement.
4. Same-Day Recovery
Most patients return home the same day, with light activity encouraged shortly after surgery.

Why Trust The Institute of Florida?

Why Trust The Institute of Florida-2

Advanced Diagnostic Precision

We use targeted nerve blocks and specialized imaging to accurately identify the true source of pain before recommending treatment.

Experience with Complex, Post-Surgical Cases

Our team specializes in evaluating and treating patients whose pain persists even after “successful” knee replacement surgery.

Focus on Preserving Mobility

We eliminate pain at its source while protecting the nerves responsible for strength, stability, and movement.

Nationally Recognized Nerve Specialists

Our surgeons are leaders in peripheral nerve surgery, trusted by patients and providers across the country and around the world.

Personalized Surgical Planning

Every treatment plan is tailored to your specific condition, symptoms, and long-term goals for recovery.

Meet Florida’s Top
Knee Denervation Experts

photo of Dr. Chris Lakhiani

Chris Lakhiani

MD, FACS
photo of Dr. Ahmed Nasser

Ahmed Nasser

MD
photo of Dr. Joseph Dayan

Joseph Dayan

MD, MBA
photo of Dr. Tzvi Small

Tzvi Small

MD, FACS

Ready to Find Relief?

If you’re tired of living with knee pain, it may be time for a different approach.

The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction is now seeing patients in Ft. Lauderdale and Boynton Beach, bringing world-class nerve care closer to home.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does pain relief last?
Most patients experience relief lasting 2–5 years, with some reporting longer results. Because nerves can regenerate over time, repeat procedures may be an option if needed.
Will this affect how my knee moves?

No. The procedure targets sensory nerves only, preserving the motor nerves responsible for movement. Many patients actually experience improved mobility due to reduced pain.

What are the risks?

As with any procedure, there are potential risks, including:

  • Infection at incision sites

  • Incomplete pain relief

  • Post-operative bruising or swelling

  • Temporary numbness or altered sensation

  • Rare cases of increased sensitivity

  • Standard anesthesia-related risks

How long is recovery?
  • Same day: Return home

     

  • 1–2 weeks: Resume light work and daily tasks

     

  • 4–6 weeks: Return to most normal activities

     

  • 6–8 weeks: Gradual return to more strenuous activity

Is knee denervation better than revision surgery?

For patients with nerve-related pain, knee denervation can provide relief without the need for another major joint surgery. A proper evaluation determines the best path forward.

How do I know if my pain is nerve-related?

A diagnostic nerve block is often the clearest indicator. If your pain improves temporarily after the injection, you may be a strong candidate for surgical denervation.

Does knee denervation replace the need for another knee surgery?

For many patients, knee denervation can help relieve pain without undergoing another major joint surgery. It’s especially beneficial when the knee replacement is structurally sound but pain persists due to nerve-related issues.

How do I know if I’m a good candidate for knee denervation?

The best way to determine candidacy is through a comprehensive evaluation, often including a diagnostic nerve block. If your pain improves after the block, it’s a strong indicator that denervation may be effective.

Is knee denervation a permanent solution?
Knee denervation provides long-lasting relief, but nerves can regenerate over time. Some patients may choose to repeat the procedure in the future if symptoms gradually return.
Will I still feel my knee after the procedure?
Yes. The procedure targets specific pain-transmitting nerves, so you may notice reduced pain while still maintaining normal sensation and awareness of your knee.
Is the procedure covered by insurance?
Coverage varies depending on your provider and plan. Our team works closely with patients to verify benefits and guide them through the insurance process before treatment.
Do I need a referral to schedule a consultation?
In most cases, a referral is not required. Patients can contact The Institute directly to request an appointment and begin the evaluation process.
How soon can I schedule a consultation in Florida?
Appointments are available at our Ft. Lauderdale and Boynton Beach locations, often within a short timeframe. Our team works to accommodate patients experiencing ongoing pain as quickly as possible.