Minimally-Invasive
Ultrasound-Guided
Percutaneous Tenotomy
Tendinitis
Tendinitis often feels like your tendon is "on fire" and can affect people of all ages. While many cases improve with simple home remedies, some may benefit from additional therapy. For persistent pain, we use advanced ultrasound technology to pinpoint the exact source of discomfort. Treatment options in our clinic are minimally invasive and often involve a quick injection with a tiny needle. These include Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), Prolotherapy, or cortisone, all designed to "put out the fire" and provide lasting relief from your pain.
Tendons
Tendons are tough, flexible bands of fibrous connective tissue that connects muscle to bone. Tendons play a crucial role in the body by transmitting the force generated by muscles to the bones, enabling movement at joints. Tendons can become damaged due to overuse, aging, or trauma, leading to conditions like tendinitis or tendinopathy. Healing can be slow because tendons have a relatively poor blood supply compared to other tissues. Tendons are essential for body movements and their health is critical for overall mobility and function.
Tendinosis
Tendinosis, also known as tendinopathy, occurs when a tendon undergoes structural degeneration, leading to disorganized collagen fibers. At this stage, tendons may accumulate fluid, develop calcifications, and, if untreated, are at risk of partial or full-thickness tears, potentially resulting in rupture. Outpatient Tenotomy is a safe and highly effective procedure for providing long-term relief from the pain caused by tendinosis. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) can be integrated into the procedure to enhance tissue repair and recovery.
Rotator Cuff Tendinosis
Patellar Tendinosis
Gluteus Medius & Minimus Tendinosis
Achilles Insertional Calcific Tendinopathy
What is a Tenotomy?
Ultrasound-guided percutaneous tenotomy is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat chronic tendon conditions, such as tendinosis or certain tendon tears. The procedure involves using ultrasound imaging to guide the insertion of a specialized instrument into the affected tendon to break down and remove degenerated tissue, promote healing, and restore normal function while preserving the healthy portions of the tendon.
Ultrasound Guidance
Ultrasound offers real-time visualization, allowing for precise targeting of the affected areas of the tendon while preserving the integrity of the healthy surrounding tissue.
Minimally Invasive
By using ultrasound to guide the TenJet device, the procedure remains minimally invasive, reducing the need for larger incisions and making it suitable for outpatient settings with a faster recovery time.
Quick Recovery
Some soreness or mild pain in the treated area is common, which usually subsides within the first few days. You may be able to resume non-strenuous, light aerobic activities within a few days to a week.
TenJet
TenJet is a minimally invasive tool designed to treat chronic tendon injuries like tendinosis. The removal of painful, damaged tissue, combined with the body's natural healing response, encourages the regeneration of healthy tendon tissue.
Jet Technology
A high-velocity jet of saline is used to precisely debride (clean and remove) damaged, degenerated tissue within the tendon. This innovative technique employs mechanical force to break down scar tissue while simultaneously extracting damaged tissue through continuous suction, promoting healing and restoring function.
Tenex
Tenex is a minimally invasive tool designed to treat calcific tendinopathy and scar tissue removal. This device delivers high-frequency, low-energy ultrasound waves to break down and remove scar tissue, calcium deposits, and other damaged tissue within the tendon.
Pre-Procedure
Dr. Penton recommends maintaining normal activity leading up to the procedure. Preparation involves fasting from solid foods on the day of the procedure. Comfortable sedation will be provided once venous access is established, and intubation is not required. To support optimal healing, Dr. Penton advises strict avoidance of sugar intake for several weeks before and after the procedure. No bracing or casting will be necessary following the treatment.
Procedure
Using live ultrasound visualization, Dr. Penton precisely targets damaged tendon tissue and activates a dual-action device to carefully remove the problematic areas. He likens the technology to a miniature pressure washer and shop-vac working together, using sterile saline to power the process. Operative times range from 5 to 20 minutes based on the extent of the tissue damage. Once completed, a small bandage is applied to the treatment site, ensuring minimal downtime and a smooth recovery.
Post-Procedure
After the procedure, you will receive one-on-one nursing care as the sedation wears off. Once fully awake, you will be discharged and escorted to your vehicle via wheelchair. Please note that you must have a designated driver.
At home, you may walk as soon as the sedation has fully worn off and use topical lidocaine or ketamine cream for additional pain relief if needed. To optimize your recovery, we highly recommend starting physical therapy with a provider of your choice two weeks after the procedure.