I have not had an ablation before TKR so I really cant answer your question. I went right from HLA to Synvisc to replacement. I think the thing to be wary of is talking your surgeons into anything. In my experience this is their profession. Its what they do. if they think you need it, get on a list and, even then, think twice. A certain percentage of TKRs fail. Mine are painful every day. No quality of life. Sure I can bend them but I still cant walk for more than a block or two without sharp pain.