Minimally Invasive Treatment for Tendons and Fascia

Topaz Procedure

The Topaz Procedure (or Topaz MicroDebrider) is a minimally invasive, state-of-the-art procedure used to treat chronic tendon and ligament conditions such as chronic achilles tendonitis and chronic plantar fasciitis. Topaz is typically intended for patients who have not responded to more traditional conservative treatments, such as supportive insoles, oral anti-inflammatory, oral steroids, physical therapy, stretching, or massage.

How Does it Work?

The entire process takes 5-10 minutes and is performed under light/twilight sedation using an intravenous sedation anesthetic. The Topaz wand is placed through a small poke-holes through the skin into the damaged area of fascia or tendon and radiofrequency is utilized for a split-second to create a small hole in the ligament/tendon. The Topaz wand uses cobalation technologies, which create the radiofrequency waves that gently cause microscopic “trauma” to the scar tissue that body wasn’t able to heal on its own. The procedure brings blood flow back to the affected area and reinitiates the healing process by converting a chronic form of inflammation into more of an acute and productive healing process. The strategically placed Topaz wand greatly minimizes any damage to surrounding healthy tissue. The procedure is usually accompanied by regenerative injections of amniotic materials or adult derived stem cell spin down products platelet rich plasma or bone marrow aspirate.

What is the Recovery Like?

Because the method is minimally invasive, recovery time from the Topaz procedure can be measured in weeks not months. Patient will typically be in a walking boot for 1-3 weeks (depending on condition treated) and then transition to wearing athletics shoes with orthotics. Dressing are removed after 1-2 days and because no incision is made further wound care is minimal.

What is the Success Rate?

Generally the topaz treatment mixed with a regenerative medicine component has been up to 90% successful in the avoidance of more traditional larger open surgical procedures. It’s important to note that the pain relief is not instantaneous and it may actually get worse before it gets better. However, once your recovery is complete, the pain is relieved, and the tendon/ligament are back to normal function. After a successful treatment, it should be emphasized that continued support to the area with proper shoes and/or insole and daily stretching is what it takes to avoid a recurrence of the condition.

Have more Questions?

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