Percutaneous Tenotomy
What Is Percutaneous Tenotomy?
Percutaneous tenotomy is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat chronic tendon pain by targeting damaged tissue. This technique uses ultrasound guidance to precisely remove the injured portion of a tendon, allowing the body to heal naturally. It is often recommended for patients who have not responded to conservative treatments like physical therapy, rest, or medications.
How Does Percutaneous Tenotomy Work?
Percutaneous tenotomy focuses on breaking down scar tissue and stimulating healing in the affected tendon. Here’s how the procedure works:
- Ultrasound guidance: Advanced imaging is used to locate the damaged area within the tendon.
- Specialized instrument: A small probe is inserted through a tiny incision near the tendon.
- Tissue removal: The instrument emits ultrasonic energy to break down and remove damaged tissue without harming surrounding healthy tissue.
- Healing process: With the injured tissue removed, the body begins repairing the area, leading to reduced pain and improved function.
This process typically takes less than an hour and requires no stitches, making it a quick and effective option for treating chronic tendon issues.
What Conditions Can Percutaneous Tenotomy Treat?
Percutaneous tenotomy is commonly used to treat a variety of tendon-related conditions, including:
- Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
- Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis)
- Rotator cuff tendinopathy
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Plantar fasciitis
- Patellar tendinopathy (jumper’s knee)
- Trochanteric syndrome (sometimes called trochanteric bursitis)
If you’ve been living with persistent tendon pain, this procedure may provide the relief you’ve been seeking.
What Are the Benefits of Percutaneous Tenotomy?
Percutaneous tenotomy offers numerous advantages over traditional surgical approaches:
- Minimally invasive: Requires only a small incision, reducing recovery time.
- Quick procedure: Typically completed in less than an hour.
- Outpatient treatment: No hospital stay is needed, and patients go home the same day.
- Targeted relief: Removes only the damaged tissue, preserving healthy structures.
- Stimulates natural healing: Encourages the body’s natural repair mechanisms.
- No stitches required: Enhances comfort and speeds up recovery.
Is Percutaneous Tenotomy Safe?
Yes, percutaneous tenotomy is a safe and effective treatment for chronic tendon pain. The use of ultrasound guidance ensures precision and reduces the risk of complications. Some patients may experience mild soreness or swelling at the treatment site, but these symptoms typically resolve within a few days.
What Should You Expect During and After the Procedure?
The procedure is straightforward and typically follows these steps:
- Before the procedure: You’ll receive a local anesthetic to numb the treatment area.
- During the procedure: Your provider will use ultrasound imaging to guide the probe to the damaged tissue, which is then gently removed using ultrasonic energy.
- After the procedure: Patients can usually resume light activities within a few days. Full recovery, including a return to high-impact activities, typically occurs within 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the tendon being treated.
Your healthcare provider will provide a customized recovery plan, including any necessary physical therapy, to optimize healing.
Who Is a Candidate for Percutaneous Tenotomy?
This procedure is ideal for individuals who:
- Have chronic tendon pain that has not improved with conservative treatments.
- Want to avoid traditional open surgery.
- Are looking for a minimally invasive option with quick recovery.
If you’re unsure whether percutaneous tenotomy is right for your condition, consult your healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation.
Start Your Journey to Pain-Free Movement
Chronic tendon pain can interfere with your ability to enjoy everyday activities. Percutaneous tenotomy offers a safe, effective, and minimally invasive solution to help you regain comfort and mobility. Speak with your healthcare provider to learn more about this innovative procedure and take the first step toward recovery.