The Tenex procedure is a minimally invasive disruption in which a small needle is inserted into the affected tendon, where it breaks down and removes damaged scar tissue without altering any healthy tissue. The removal of damaged tissue will allow more healthy tissue to grow, restoring the tendon’s ability to function in a healthy, painless manner.
How to Prepare for Tenex
- Please arrive 1 to 2 hours before your procedure.
- Your interventional radiologist may request imaging in order to get a closer look at the affected area.
- Patients who take blood thinners may be asked to stop a week before the surgery.
What to Expect
- The procedure only takes 5 to 10 minutes.
- You will be administered a local anesthetic, so you will be awake during the procedure. The area of incision is numbed, so you should not feel pain, only mild discomfort.
- A small incision is made on the skin over the affected area.
- Your interventional radiologist uses image guidance to insert the small needle into the abnormal tendon.
- The toothpick-sized tip of the needle releases ultrasonic energy, which breaks up the damaged scar tissue at the source of your pain, and the tissue is removed through the needle.
- The incision is covered, and does not require additional stitches.
What to Expect after Tenex
- You can return home within one hour of the procedure.
- You will need 2-3 weeks of restricted activity before returning to full use.
- Your interventional radiologist will schedule a follow up appointment 2 weeks after the procedure to monitor the results.
For More Information
For more information on Tenex, or to schedule an appointment with an interventional radiologist, please call 847.570.2160.