An operation in which one or more tendons (see TENDON) are divided, usually with the object of remedying some deformity.
n. surgical *division of a tendon. This may be necessary to correct a joint deformity caused by tendon shortening or to reduce the imbalance of forces caused by an overactive muscle in a spastic limb. Tenotomy of the tensor tympani muscle is sometimes used in the treatment of *middle ear myoclonus. See also scissor leg.