COOLIEF Cooled Radiofrequency Therapy
for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis and chronic joint pain
COOLIEF – Cooled Radiofrequency Therapy (RF) is a minimally invasive, non-surgical, and non-pharmacological treatment for arthritis that targets and desensitizes the pain signals from the joint. The therapy is performed under local anesthesia; opioid use is not required.
How Does the Coolief Procedure Work?
Under local anesthesia, the electrode is precisely positioned using X-ray guidance at the treatment site to target individual pain nerves.
These electrodes are then connected to a generator. A high-frequency signal is sent to the respective nerve through the RF electrode and ideally distributed by water cooling. This takes approximately 15-30 minutes per region.
The procedure is repeated at several sites.
Effect: RF energy creates a targeted deactivation of sensory nerves, i.e., those that transmit pain. The motor nerves responsible for movement remain unaffected. This technique allows for precise targeting of the affected nerves, which increases treatment effectiveness while sparing surrounding tissue.
Is there Scientific Research Supporting this Procedure?
Yes. Several recent research studies have compared Coolief RF treatment with intra-articular steroid injections and found Coolief to be more effective.
How Long Does the Treatment’s Effect Last?
Studies have shown significant improvement in physical function and quality of life for knee patients for up to 12 months. For some patients, symptom relief may last longer.
What are the Benefits of the Treatment?
- Pain relief
- Targeted, precise therapy
- Minimal invasiveness
- Short recovery time
- Low risk of side effects
- Improved quality of life
Aftercare
- Rest for 7 days
- Shower patches on the small puncture sites for 5 days
Costs:
€2,490
What do the costs comprise?
- Technological Innovation: The COOLIEF system utilizes advanced technologies for cooling and precise energy delivery, which are complex and costly in development and manufacturing.
- Specialized Equipment: The equipment and consumables required for radiofrequency ablation are costly.
- Specialized Expertise: Performing the COOLIEF treatment requires specialized training and comprehensive knowledge in applying this technology.
- X-ray Guidance: X-ray guidance ensures a very precise application.
- Long-term Cost-effectiveness: The method offers long-lasting pain relief. This reduces the need for repeated treatments or surgical interventions, which can be more cost-effective in the long term.
