Tenotomy is a minimally invasive procedure that involves multiple needle passes of the degenerated tendon to disrupt the affected area and induce bleeding from the tendon bony attachment.
This leads to converting the chronic non-healing tendon injury into an acute injury with clot formation and release of healing factors to increase the healing potential.
Tenotomy is performed with a single needle insertion through the skin after administration of a local freezing and under ultrasound guidance with minimal discomfort to the patient.
This can be combined with a Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injection to further enhance the healing potential.
Cortisone injections must be avoided in the entire body six weeks prior to Tenotomy and for twelve weeks in the anatomical area that is undergoing Tenotomy.
NSAIDs (Ibuprofen, Advil, Aleve, naproxen, celebrex, diclofenic, Voltaran, etc,) must be avoided two weeks prior to the procedure.
Smoking cessation is strongly recommended as it has been associated with poor tendon healing and recovery.
The use of CBD oil and/or medical marijuana is also recommended to be avoided for two weeks prior to the procedure.
You can expect significantly increased pain for three to seven days after the procedure.
NSAID’s and medical marijuana must be avoided for two weeks after the procedure.
You must immobilize the area that in a brace, air cast, or crutch for a minimum of three days. Lack of immobilization risks rupture of the muscle/ tendon.
Within these three days you should remove the brace three to five times a day to go over range of motion exercises prescribed by your physiotherapist.
After three days you can remove the brace for in-household activities.
If after three days you are required to leave the house for extended periods of time (i.e. to go to work) you must immobilize the joint in the appropriate brace, sling, or crutch until otherwise stated by your physiotherapist.