Topaz Procedure for Heel Pain & Achilles Tendon pathology
The Topaz Procedure (or Topaz MicroDebrider) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat Chronic Achilles Tendinosis and plantar fasciitis. Topaz is intended for patients who have not received satisfactory symptom relief from more conservative treatments, such as orthotics, physical therapy, stretching, massage or injections.
How does the Topaz coblation procedure work?
The entire process takes only 20 minutes and is performed in a hospital using intravenous sedation and local anesthetic. Your doctor places the Topaz wand, which looks like a sewing needle, into the affected fascia or tendon for just a half-second. Then, the wand is moved about a quarter-inch and pushed in again. This action is repeated until a grid-like pattern is formed around the affected area.
The Topaz wand uses cobalation technologies, which are radiofrequency waves that gently cause microscopic “trauma” to the scar tissue your body hasn’t yet been able to heal. The procedure brings blood back to the affected area and restarts the healing process by increasing the growth factors in the damaged tissue region. The strategically placed Topaz wand greatly minimizes any damage to surrounding healthy tissue. Because the method is minimally invasive, recovery time from the Topaz procedure can be measured in weeks instead of months. After a week in a walking boot, most patients can begin wearing athletics shoes with orthotic inserts.
What is the success rate of the Topaz procedure?
The topaz treatment is successful 80% of the time. 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, your pain is relieved and the tendon is back to normal. As long as you stretch the tendon and wear supportive shoes and/or orthotics, your condition should not recur.
Is Topaz covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans will cover the Topaz procedure. We have had it covered in our practice and are happy to help you should you require this procedure. Please note we did the initial clinical studies on the Topaz procedure and have extensive experience with it.