Percutaneous Needle Electrolysis (PNE)

Dr. Sean Altman, PT, DPT, CPT, Cert SMT, CertDN, FMS

Introduction:

Percutaneous Needle Electrolysis (PNE) is a minimally invasive treatment that uses a fine needle to deliver electrical currents to damaged tissues, promoting healing, reducing pain, and improving function. This innovative approach is highly effective in treating both acute and chronic musculoskeletal injuries like tendinopathies, ligament injuries, and soft tissue disorders.

Key Benefits of AltPoint PNE:

Accelerates tissue healing
Reduces pain and inflammation
Improves function and range of motion
Minimally invasive and guided by ultrasound imaging for precision

Treatment Overview:

For chronic or acute musculoskeletal injuries, patients receive two treatments with the AltPoint PNE device. The treatments are spaced two weeks apart and guided by ultrasound for accurate needle placement.

Highlighted Cases:

1. Medial Meniscus Tear (19-year-old male):

Initial Pain Level: 8-9/10
After treatment: Full knee function and pain-free within eight weeks.

Figure 1: Ultrasound Imaging of Medial Meniscus Tear Pre- and Post-Treatment (Left and Right)

Figure 2: Ultrasound Imaging of Achilles Tear at Initial Exam, 4 and 8 Weeks (Left to Right)

2. Achilles Tear (56-year-old male):

Initial Pain Level: 8/10
After treatment: Complete healing by eight weeks, resumed running.

3. Chronic Elbow Pain (49-year-old male):

Initial Pain Level: 7/10
After treatment: Full pain relief and grip strength restored by eight weeks.

Figure 3: Pre- and Post-Treatment Imaging of Common Extensor Tendon

Figure 4: Ultrasound Imaging of Gluteus Maximus Tear Before and After Treatment

4. Gluteus Maximus Tear (76-year-old female):

Initial Pain Level: 8/10
Complete healing confirmed by ultrasound in eight weeks and pain free.

5. Hip Arthritis and Labral Tear (62-year-old female):

Pain level from 9/10 to 0/10 and complete healing within 6 weeks.

Figure 5: Pre- and Post-Treatment Ultrasound of Hip Labral Tear

Figure 6: Healing Progress of Supraspinatus Tear from Initial Exam to 8 weeks

6. Supraspinatus Tear (41-year-old male):

80-90% healing by four weeks, full recovery/return to activities in 8 weeks.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT DR. SEAN ALTMAN AT (914) 714-5300

Results:

All six patients experienced significant reductions in pain and improvements in functional ability. Ultrasound imaging confirmed tissue healing, and patients were able to return to their normal activities pain-free.

Conclusion:

AltPoint PNE demonstrates exceptional results in treating various musculoskeletal conditions, offering a quick recovery for patients who have not responded to traditional treatments like physical therapy or PRP injections. Ultrasound guidance ensures treatment precision, allowing real-time monitoring of tissue healing.