Autologous Tenocyte Implantation (ATI).

A regenerative treatment for chronic tendon pain.

Autologous Tenocyte Implantation (ATI) is an advanced treatment that uses your own tendon cells to help repair long-standing tendon injuries. It is designed for people whose symptoms haven’t improved with rehabilitation, loading programs, shockwave therapy, or injections such as PRP.

How ATI Works

ATI is a two-stage process:

1. Tendon Biopsy

A small sample of healthy tendon is taken under local anaesthetic and ultrasound guidance. The sample is sent to a specialised laboratory (Orthocell in Perth) where your tendon cells (tenocytes) are grown and multiplied.

2. Tenocyte Implantation

After 4–6 weeks, your expanded tenocytes are injected into the injured tendon using ultrasound guidance for accuracy.

These cells help restore tendon structure by producing new collagen and supporting tissue repair.

Conditions ATI May Help

ATI may be considered for chronic tendon problems such as:

· Gluteal tendinopathy

· Hamstring origin tendinopathy

· Patellar tendinopathy

· Achilles tendinopathy

· Rotator cuff (supraspinatus) tears

· Tennis elbow

It is often used when symptoms persist despite a structured rehabilitation program.

Benefits

· Uses your own cells — no risk of rejection

· Targets the underlying tendon degeneration

· Minimally invasive

· May improve pain, strength, and tendon structure

· Suitable for active individuals and athletes

Evidence includes case-series and observational studies showing improvements in pain, function, and MRI tendon appearance.

Risks

ATI is generally safe, but possible risks include:

· Temporary pain or swelling

· Minor bleeding or bruising

· Infection (rare)

· Nerve irritation (uncommon)

· Tendon flare during early healing

Your clinician will discuss whether ATI is appropriate for your condition.

Recovery

ATI works best when combined with a guided rehabilitation plan. Typical recovery includes:

· A few days of relative rest after each procedure

· Gradual return to loading

· Progressive strengthening over 6–12 weeks

Your clinician or physiotherapist will tailor your program.

Costs

ATI is not covered by Medicare, private health insurance, TAC, or WorkCover. WorkCover/TAC may consider pre-approval in some cases. We can provide detailed quotes as required.

Is ATI Right for You?

ATI may be an option if you have persistent tendon pain that has not responded to rehabilitation or other treatments. Your SEM specialist will assess your tendon, review imaging, and discuss whether ATI is likely to help.