TENEX / TENJET — removing damaged tendon tissue through a nick in the skin.
Minimally invasive, ultrasound-guided removal of degenerated tendon tissue — no open surgery.
What it is
TENEX and TENJET are percutaneous (through-the-skin) techniques that use ultrasonic or fluid energy to break up and remove degenerated tendon tissue through a tiny opening — guided by ultrasound.
It belongs to the toolkit alongside the regenerative work. Where a tendon has degenerated to the point that a segment of tissue is holding the rest back, that tissue can be removed — precisely, through the same small opening, with the healthy tendon left intact. It is commonly paired with regenerative techniques as part of a comprehensive plan.
Which tools are used, and in what order, follows the diagnosis — the same principle that governs everything in the toolkit.
What it’s used for here
For chronic tendinosis when imaging shows degenerated tissue rather than simple inflammation.
Precision is the point
Ultrasound guidance targets only the damaged tissue, sparing the healthy tendon around it.
Honest about evidence
Outcomes are good for well-selected tendon problems and it is not right for every case. It is chosen after a clear diagnosis.
Common questions
Asked and answered
Is TENEX the same as open surgery?
No. TENEX and TENJET are percutaneous — through-the-skin — techniques. Ultrasonic or fluid energy is used to break up and remove degenerated tendon tissue through a tiny opening, guided by ultrasound.
Who is TENEX for?
Chronic tendinosis that hasn’t settled with conservative care — where imaging shows degenerated tissue rather than simple inflammation.
Does TENEX damage healthy tendon tissue?
No. Ultrasound guidance targets only the damaged tissue, sparing the healthy tendon around it.
Does TENEX work for everyone?
Outcomes are good for well-selected tendon problems, but it is not right for every case. It is chosen after a clear diagnosis.
What is the TENJET procedure?
TENJET and TENEX are the same class of procedure — a percutaneous tenotomy. Through a tiny opening, fluid or ultrasonic energy breaks up degenerated tendon tissue and removes it, with the healthy tendon left in place. It is done under ultrasound guidance in a single visit, with no open incision and no stitches.
What is the success rate of TENEX / TENJET?
Published results for well-selected chronic tendon problems are good, but a single number would be misleading — outcomes depend heavily on whether the tendon is genuinely degenerated and whether the right tendon was identified. That is why imaging and diagnosis come before the procedure is offered.
How much does TENJET cost, and is it covered by insurance?
For orthopedic use this is generally considered elective and is usually not covered by insurance or Medicare. Cost is discussed openly at your evaluation.
Educational information, not medical advice or a diagnosis. Care is individualized; not every treatment is right for every patient, and results vary.