AMSSM Sports Medcasts Microsurgical Tendon Debridement vs. Orthobiologics for Tendinopathy with Dr. Ashwin Rao
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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.
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Tendinosis vs. Tendonitis
- Tendinosis, like a stress fracture, signifies loss of elasticity and increased brittleness in the tendon.
- This structural change, coupled with neovascularity and neo-nerves, causes pain and dysfunction.
Managing Patient Expectations
- Manage patient expectations regarding recovery time after tendon debridement.
- Emphasize that full return to sport takes 3-6 months, despite faster initial progress compared to surgery.
Orthobiologics: Setting Expectations
- When discussing orthobiologics, clarify that they primarily modify the chemical environment, not regenerate tissue.
- Manage expectations by emphasizing pain and function improvement, not structural changes visible in imaging.