AMSSM Sports Medcasts
Microsurgical Tendon Debridement vs. Orthobiologics for Tendinopathy with Dr. Ashwin Rao
Feb 21, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Dr. Ashwin Rao, a board-certified family and sports medicine expert and professor at the UW School of Medicine, shares his insights on innovative treatments for tendinopathy. He dives into microsurgical tendon debridement, explaining its use of advanced technology to selectively remove damaged tissue while preserving healthy tendon. The discussion also explores orthobiologics and their role in enhancing recovery. Dr. Rao emphasizes the significance of patient expectations and effective rehabilitation for optimal outcomes.
33:03
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Quick takeaways
- Microsurgical tendon debridement offers a minimally invasive option for chronic tendon issues by removing damaged areas and preserving healthy tissue.
- Orthobiologics utilize treatments like platelet-rich plasma to stimulate healing processes and manage pain, differing from structural repairs in tendon injuries.
Deep dives
Microsurgical Tendon Debridement Explained
Microsurgical tendon debridement is a minimally invasive procedure that targets chronic tendon issues through small incisions or even needles. This technique aims to remove pathologic areas from damaged tendons, distinguishing between tendonitis, characterized by inflammation, and tendinosis, a degenerative state. Dr. Rao uses analogies like a frayed boat rope or an elastic band to help patients understand the difference in their tendon structure. The 10X device is highlighted as a preferred option, using high-frequency oscillations to effectively break down unhealthy tendon tissue while preserving the healthy tendon matrix.
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