Ultrasonic Tenotomy for Tendinopathy: Evidence and Outcomes Tendinopathy is commonly seen in sports medicine clinics and involves multiple joints including the elbow, foot/ankle, gluteal musculature, and shoulder.
Ultrasonic Tenotomy for Tendinopathy: Evidence and Outcomes Tendinopathy is commonly seen in sports medicine clinics and involves multiple joints including the elbow, foot/ankle, gluteal musculature, and shoulder. At the microscopic level, degenerated tenocytes lead to mucoid degeneration within the tendon. The prevalence of chronic tendinopathy led to the creation of the Tenex procedure in 2011.
Percutaneous ultrasonic tenotomy is indicated for recalcitrant tendinopathy. The Tenex device uses ultrasonic vibration of a needle to remove the necrotic tissue found in tendinopathy. Using a 19g needle, the 28kHz oscillation will irrigate the tendon with saline to assist in debriding the tendinopathy.
Case Question Which of the following ultrasound findings is seen in lateral epicondylitis? The patients enrolled in the study filled out a QuickDASH survey to help gauge their pain score. Preprocedurally, the tenotomy group scored a 56 +/- 8.4 and 3 months after the procedure scored a 21 +/- 7.6.
This was similar to the surgical group who preoperatively scored a 56 and 3 months after the procedure scored a 16. The outcomes between the two groups were also similar at 12 months. The cutting time was in line with previous studies at 105s.
Recently published in the Journal of Primary Care & Community Health, a sports medicine clinic looked at the treatment of calcific tendonitis with an ultrasonic tenotomy and debridement using the Tenex TX2 and TXBone tip. Outside of physical therapy and either PRP or corticosteroid injection into the trochanteric bursa, treatment options are limited. As a result, a study published in the Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine looked at the treatment of gluteal tendinopathy with the Tenex TX System.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to evidence for ultrasonic tenotomy for tendinopathy, it is important to see a sports medicine physician. Early evaluation and treatment typically lead to better outcomes. Do not ignore pain or symptoms that are limiting your activity.
*This article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.*
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