FAQ

The Tenex FAST (Focused Aspiration of Soft Tissue) procedure is a minimally invasive technique designed to treat chronic tendinosis and fasciosis. It uses high-frequency ultrasonic energy to remove damaged tissue from tendons without harming the surrounding healthy structures. Under ultrasound guidance, a small incision is made to insert a specialized microtip handpiece that delivers targeted energy to break down and aspirate the diseased tissue. Unlike traditional open surgery, Tenex is performed under local anesthesia and requires no stitches. The treatment typically takes about 15 minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis. Patients usually return home the same day and experience minimal discomfort. The technology is particularly effective for treating chronic tendon conditions that have not responded to conservative treatment, such as rest, ice, or physical therapy.

Yes, Tenex has proven to be highly effective for treating tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis. This condition involves microscopic tears in the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) tendon, which leads to pain on the outside of the elbow. For individuals whose symptoms persist despite rest, physical therapy, injections, or bracing, Tenex provides a targeted solution. The procedure allows Dr. Badia to use ultrasound to locate the exact area of damaged tendon tissue and remove it using ultrasonic energy. This restores tendon integrity and function while promoting natural healing. Patients often report significant pain relief within weeks and return to full elbow mobility without long recovery periods. In fact, former top-ranked athletes like tennis champion Marcelo Ríos have returned to competition within a month after undergoing the Tenex procedure.

One of the main advantages of Tenex over traditional open surgery is that it is far less invasive. With Tenex, there is no need for general anesthesia, large incisions, or stitches. The microtip used during the procedure is approximately the size of a syringe, and the entire process is guided by real-time ultrasound imaging. Other benefits include: This makes Tenex ideal for athletes and active individuals who want to avoid the downtime associated with surgery.

Absolutely. Golfer’s elbow, or medial epicondylitis, affects the tendons on the inner side of the elbow and is often caused by repetitive wrist flexion or gripping. Like tennis elbow, it involves tendinosis—or degeneration—rather than inflammation. Traditional treatments like rest, physical therapy, or corticosteroid injections often fall short in providing lasting relief. Tenex addresses the root of the problem by removing the necrotic (dead) tendon tissue that fails to heal due to poor blood supply. By targeting and aspirating this damaged tissue, Tenex stimulates a regenerative healing process. For many patients with golfer’s elbow, this translates into pain relief, improved function, and a quicker return to normal activities—without the risks and recovery time of open surgery.

The ideal candidate for Tenex is someone suffering from chronic tendinosis that has not improved with conservative treatments. This includes individuals with: Patients often report symptoms lasting more than 3 to 6 months, with localized pain and limited mobility. Tenex is especially well-suited for athletes, tradespeople, and active individuals who need a reliable and fast-acting solution. Dr. Badia performs a comprehensive evaluation using physical examination and diagnostic ultrasound to confirm the presence of degenerative tendon tissue before recommending Tenex.

During the Tenex procedure, you’ll be awake but comfortable. Dr. Badia administers local anesthesia to numb the treatment area, and a tiny incision (about 3 mm) is made to allow the Tenex microtip to access the affected tissue. Using ultrasound for precision, the ultrasonic energy removes the damaged tendon tissue while preserving healthy structures. After the procedure, a small adhesive bandage is applied—no stitches required. Most patients experience only mild soreness and may take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed. Heavy lifting or strain should be avoided for a week or two, but no formal physical therapy is usually necessary. Most patients return to their normal activities in 4 to 6 weeks, often with significant pain relief.

The Tenex FAST procedure is designed to be comfortable and minimally painful. Since it’s done under local anesthesia, you won’t feel pain during the procedure itself. The insertion of the microtip and the removal of diseased tissue are performed with precise control and real-time ultrasound imaging. After the procedure, some patients may experience mild soreness similar to what you might feel after a flu shot or a blood draw. This usually resolves in a few days and can be managed with non-prescription pain medication. Unlike traditional surgery, which often involves significant post-op pain and swelling, Tenex offers a smoother, more tolerable recovery.

One of the key benefits of the Tenex procedure is its quick recovery time. Most patients return to light activities within a few days. Dr. Badia generally advises avoiding strenuous exercise or repetitive movements involving the treated tendon for about 1 to 2 weeks. For athletes or individuals in physically demanding jobs, full return to play or work typically occurs within 4 to 6 weeks. Patients who undergo Tenex for tennis elbow have reported significant improvements and return to competition within weeks—not months. This is a major advantage for those who can’t afford prolonged downtime.

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) injections and corticosteroid shots are commonly used to manage pain and inflammation in tennis or golfer’s elbow. While these treatments may offer temporary relief, they do not physically remove the diseased tissue that causes chronic pain. Tenex, on the other hand, removes the damaged tendon tissue entirely. This addresses the root cause of the pain and allows for true healing, not just symptom relief. Additionally, Tenex is a one-time procedure in most cases, whereas injections may need to be repeated. For patients who haven’t found lasting relief with PRP or steroids, Tenex is often the next step in definitive care.