Tenex Procedure
Dr. Steve Stahle is proud to introduce a new treatment option designed to remove the source of tendon pain. He is one of a few select doctors in the country trained in the TENEX procedure. The TENEX procedure (FOCUSED ASPIRATION OF SCAR TISSUE) is based on advanced technology developed in collaboration with the Mayo Clinic. TENEX is a minimally invasive treatment designed to remove tendon scar tissue and allow patients to return to their athletics and active lifestyles.
Some of the best athletes and weekend warriors in St. Louis are treated by Dr. Steve Stahle. Professional and Olympic athletes from across the country seek out his opinion. Many of those professionals continue to see Dr. Stahle long after retirement as they continue their passion for an energetic lifestyle. Nationally ranked high school and college athletes, along with elite amateur competitors, also are treated by Dr. Stahle.
The innovative TENEX procedure, is a gentle method for percutaneous removal of diseased tissue and restoration of natural tendon and soft tissue function. TENEX combines conventional ultrasonic imaging for visualization with the advanced TX1 Tissue Removal System.
This distinctive combination allows physicians to identify and simultaneously debride, emulsify, and aspirate pain-generating pathologic soft tissue in tendons and other musculoskeletal structures of the elbow, knee, Achilles, foot, and shoulder.
TX1 Percutaneous Tenotomy Patellar Tendon - Steven Stahle, MD
TX1 Percutaneous Tenotomy Achilles Tendon - Steven Stahle, MD
TX1 Percutaneous Tenotomy Lateral Epicondyle - Steven Stahle, MD
TX1 Percutaneous Fasciotomy Plantar Fascia - Steven Stahle, MD
Only with the TENEX procedure:
- Minimally invasive percutaneous insertion
- Identify, emulsify, and aspirate diseased tissue
- Total procedure time of 15 minutes or less
- Quick recovery time
- Compelling clinical results and safety
What are some common tendon injuries?
The most common injuries seen by Dr. Stahle in his sports medicine practice are tendon and soft tissue injuries. These injuries include:
- Tennis elbow
- Plantar fasciitis
- Golfer’s elbow
- Achilles tendonitis
- Knee pain
- Shoulder pain
According to Dr. Stahle, some tendon injuries can cause significant lifestyle changes. “Patients with severe plantar fasciitis are consumed by pain from their first step in the morning to their last step at night. They are forced to stop running and working out because the pain is so intense.” Patients with tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow are devastated when severe pain prevents them from playing and competing in their beloved sport.
What causes tendon pain?
Tendon pain is most often caused by trauma, such as a hit or twist on the joint, or repetitive motion during sports or work. The scarred and damaged tendon can cause significant pain that can stop you from fully participating in athletics and life. The pain in your joint likely will become worse over time.
What are the treatment options?
Until now, the options for treating severe tendon and fascia pain were rest, physical therapy, PRP (platelet rich plasma), and an open surgical procedure. Patients utilizing rest, physical therapy, and medication may find some pain relief but will not actually address the cause of the pain. PRP therapy injects the patient’s own healthy growth factor stimulating platelets and nutrients back into the injured tissue for accelerated healing. Dr. Stahle runs one of the busiest PRP treatment practices in the country. In certain medical conditions, PRP may be combined with the TENEX. Although surgery can be beneficial, it is accompanied by potential side effects and considerable down time. Many treatment options have prolonged periods and restricted activity, which may be unacceptable to patients.
How is the TENEX procedure different from other options?
The TENEX procedure is a gentle, minimally invasive method that allows Dr. Stahle to identify, emulsify, and remove diseased tissue without disturbing the surrounding healthy tissue. Dr. Stahle states that his desired effect is, “to achieve the same goal as surgery without the use of general anesthesia.” The patient is given a local anesthetic and remains fully awake. Ultrasound imaging is used to identify the scar tissue. “Using the ultrasound guidance allows me to pinpoint the target area and the small, innovative instrument I use provides a breakthrough in precision of soft tissue removal.” This system represents the most advanced technology available for treating these types of injuries. All major insurance companies will cover the expenses of the TENEX procedure.
What kind of results should the patient expect following the TENEX?
Immediately following the procedure, the patient is pain free and able to return home. The patient may return to their athletics and activity shortly thereafter. Patients typically go to physical therapy after the procedure to gain strength. TENEX is the newest, most technologically advanced option for removing tendon pain. The goal is to find the option best suited to your needs.
“It is a privilege to be a part of the sports medicine and orthopedic community in St. Louis. In my opinion, we have some of the best doctors in the country working here. I’m honored to bring one more medical option to our patients.”
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