News Release

FORT WAYNE – A minimally invasive technique delivering immediate and long-lasting non-opioid pain relief for total knee replacement surgery is now available for patients at The Orthopedic Hospital of Lutheran Health Network, resulting in a quicker return to an active lifestyle.

Cryoanalgesia is the process of freezing nerves to provide pain relief without permanently damaging the nerves or surrounding structures. Providers at The Orthopedic Hospital are able to deliver precise, controlled doses of cryoanalgesia to the signal-carrying parts of a nerve without damaging surrounding tissue. The procedure can be performed prior to knee surgery to help reduce pain after surgery.

“We are performing cryoanalgesia on our total knee replacement patients with tremendous results,” says Rachel Hollingsworth, MD, an anesthesiologist performing the procedure at The Orthopedic Hospital. “They are experiencing much better pain control before their surgery and they require less narcotic use in the hospital and in their home regimen. They are also able to begin rehabilitation quicker after surgery.”

Pain associated with knee procedures has traditionally been treated with opioid medication, which can be addictive. Using cryoanalgesia revolutionizes how patients can recover, reducing opioid consumption and risks involved with addictive drugs.

Patient Ellen Douglas of Leo confirms the benefits of cryoanalgesia, from decreased knee pain and less stiffness to improved physical function. “I received my treatment two days prior to my knee replacement surgery. Immediately after the procedure, I was able to walk without my walker,” says Douglas. “I am now three weeks post-surgery and have only needed my pain medication once or twice a day. I am able to navigate at home easily and can climb stairs at my physical therapy sessions.”

To learn more about cryoanalgesia or schedule an appointment, contact The Orthopedic Hospital at 260.435.2999.