Patient handout · Pain treatments
Percutaneous Tenotomy (Tenex)
What it is
Tenex treats long-term tendon pain, such as tennis elbow. Using ultrasound, the doctor removes damaged tendon tissue through a tiny opening. This may help the tendon heal.
Why it is done
- Chronic tennis or golfer's elbow
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles, patellar or rotator cuff tendinopathy
- Symptoms lasting several months despite conservative care
What to expect
- Before: The doctor uses ultrasound to look at the tendon.
- During: After numbing, the doctor uses a tiny tool through a very small opening to remove damaged tissue. It takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
- After: You protect the area for a short time, then start a rehab program.
Self-care tips
- Keep your usual routine unless we tell you otherwise.
- Keep a symptom diary to share with us.
- Keep up with any home exercises.
- Come to every visit in your series.
When to call us
- Redness, swelling or warmth that gets worse
- Fever or chills
- Symptoms that get worse
Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or loss of bladder or bowel control.
This handout is general information and is not a substitute for medical advice.