Tenotomy Treatment
Performed ByYour Orthopedic Surgeons Dr. Salvatore Corso & Dr. Jeffrey Guttman
At Empire Pain Management, Minimally Invasive Spine & Orthopedic Specialists our orthopedic surgeons use tenotomy to treat chronic tendon pain that has not improved with other care.
Call us today for a consultation or to make an appointment. We proudly serve patients across New York and New Jersey, including communities such as Plainview, Ronkonkoma, New Hyde Park, Montville, and Plainfield.
Orthopedic tendon procedure
What is tenotomy?
Tenotomy is a procedure that releases or cleans up a damaged tendon. For long-lasting tendon pain such as tennis elbow, the surgeon removes or breaks up worn-out tendon tissue so healthier tissue can heal. This is often done through a needle guided by ultrasound or through a very small incision.
In other cases, such as some biceps tendon problems in the shoulder, the surgeon cuts (releases) the tendon to take away a source of pain. This is usually done during shoulder arthroscopy.
In shortA minimally invasive procedure to release or clean up a damaged tendon for chronic tendon pain such as tennis elbow.
Is tenotomy right for you?
Your physician decides after an exam and a review of your imaging and past treatment. These are the usual signs.
Often considered Good fit
- Tendon pain that has lasted three to six months or longer
- Little improvement with rest, physical therapy, bracing, activity changes or injections
- Imaging (ultrasound or MRI) that shows damaged or degenerated tendon tissue
- Certain shoulder biceps tendon problems found during arthroscopy
Usually not the first step Not yet
- A new injury that has not had time or treatment to heal
- A complete tendon tear that needs to be repaired rather than released
- An active infection near the area
Where it fits
Most tendon problems improve without surgery. Tenotomy is usually considered after a solid trial of physical therapy and other care, and it is often less involved than a full open tendon repair. Your surgeon will explain whether it suits your tendon and your activity goals.
Types of tenotomy
Percutaneous needle tenotomy
A needle, guided by ultrasound, is used to break up and remove damaged tendon tissue through the skin. No stitches are usually needed.
Mini-open tenotomy
A small incision lets the surgeon see the tendon directly and clean away the damaged part.
Arthroscopic tenotomy
Done with a small camera inside the joint, for example releasing the long head of the biceps tendon during shoulder arthroscopy. It may be paired with a tenodesis, which reattaches the tendon.
What to expect, step by step
What happens before, during and after the procedure.
Confirm the diagnosis
Your surgeon examines the area and reviews ultrasound or MRI to confirm the tendon is the source of pain.
Numb the area
Local anesthetic is used, sometimes with light sedation. Shoulder procedures done with arthroscopy use regional or general anesthesia.
Treat the tendon
The damaged tendon tissue is removed or broken up, or the tendon is released, depending on the problem.
Protect and start moving
A small bandage, and sometimes a brace or sling, is applied. You go home the same day with a rehab plan.
Recovery timeline
Everyone heals differently. Your care team gives you instructions for your situation.
- First days
Rest, ice and protect the area. A brace or sling may be used for a short time.
- Weeks 1 to 6
Gentle motion first, then physical therapy to rebuild strength. Desk work is often possible within days.
- Weeks 6 to 12+
Gradual return to sport and heavy work as the tendon heals. Timing varies by tendon and by person.
When to call us
Call us if you notice increasing redness, warmth or drainage, a fever, or numbness that does not go away.
Benefits and risks
Every procedure has trade-offs. Your physician reviews them with you before you decide.
Possible benefits
- Targets the damaged tendon tissue directly
- Often done through a needle or small incision
- Same-day procedure in most cases
- Can relieve pain that has not responded to other care
Possible risks
- Infection or bleeding
- Nerve irritation near the treated area
- Stiffness or temporary weakness
- Pain that does not fully improve, or comes back
- After biceps tenotomy: a change in the shape of the upper arm muscle and occasional cramping
Conditions it is used for
Related treatments
Options your physician may discuss before or after this procedure.
Where we offer Tenotomy
Available at these Empire offices in New York and New Jersey.
Frequently asked questions
Is tenotomy considered surgery?
It is a surgical procedure, but many tenotomies are minimally invasive. Needle tenotomy is done through the skin with ultrasound guidance, and others use a small incision or arthroscopy.
How is tenotomy different from PRP injections?
PRP injections use a concentrate from your own blood to support healing and do not remove tissue. Tenotomy physically removes or releases damaged tendon tissue. Your surgeon may discuss one, the other, or both depending on your tendon.
Will I need physical therapy?
Usually yes. Therapy helps the healing tendon get stronger and lowers the chance of the problem coming back.
When can I go back to work?
Many people with desk jobs return within days. Jobs that involve heavy lifting or repetitive use of the treated area often need several weeks. Your surgeon will give you a timeline for your situation.
Is tenotomy covered by insurance?
It is often covered when medically necessary, and prior authorization may be required. Our team checks your coverage before scheduling.
Talk to a specialist about Tenotomy
We will review your symptoms and imaging and explain every option, including non-surgical care.
What Our Patients Say
Our Plainview office has moved
Find us at our new location:
520 Old Country Rd
Plainview, NY 11803
Same doctors, same phone numbers.
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