A Systematic Review of Post-Procedural Rehabilitation Protocols following Percutaneous Needle Tenotomy and Ultrasonic Debridement for Gluteal, Proximal Hamstring, and Patellar Tendinopathy.

Abstract

Percutaneous needle tenotomy (PNT) and ultrasonic debridement (UD) are minimally invasive interventions for the management of chronic tendinopathy. Despite their increasing use, no standardized, evidence-based rehabilitation guidelines currently exist to direct clinicians in post-procedural management. This systematic review aimed to characterize and synthesize reported rehabilitation protocols following PNT and UD for patellar, proximal hamstring, and gluteal tendinopathies. Systematic Review. Twenty-seven studies met inclusion criteria, with patellar tendon procedures (n=13) being the most common, followed by gluteal (n=6), proximal hamstring (n=3), and multi-tendon protocols (n=5). Of the included studies, 21 (78%) utilized percutaneous needle tenotomy (PNT) and six (22%) used ultrasound debridement or Tenex. Exercise restrictions were mandated in 19 studies (70%), while 12 (44%) provided a detailed, structured rehabilitation program, frequently emphasizing eccentric loading for patellar and hamstring tendons. Weight-bearing limitations were uncommon, appearing in only three studies (11%). Fifteen studies (56%) combined the procedure with platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Pharmacological protocols also showed high variance, with NSAID restrictions ranging from 1 to 28 days and corticosteroid avoidance lasting between 10 days and one year. Overall, substantial variability remains regarding recommended activity progression, exercise initiation, and mechanical loading strategies across current research. PNT and UD appear effective for managing refractory tendinopathy, yet post-procedure rehabilitation guidelines remain inconsistent and supported by limited high-quality evidence. Future research should aim to identify key variables that guide individualized rehabilitation progressions, optimizing recovery timelines, and facilitating safe and efficient return to activity following PNT and UD procedures.