<?xml version="1.0" encoding="US-ASCII"?>
<!--  EDGAR Online I-Metrix Xcelerate Taxonomy Definition Linkbase, based on XBRL 2.1  http://www.edgar-online.com/  -->
<!--  Version: 6.7.10 -->
<!--  Round: 5a53f68f-59c5-4c1f-926f-3dd6022dee98 -->
<!--  Creation date: 2010-10-29T22:45:31Z -->
<!--  Copyright (c) 2005-2010 EDGAR Online, Inc. All Rights Reserved. -->
<linkbase xmlns="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase"
  xmlns:xsi="http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema-instance"
  xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"
  xmlns:xbrldt="http://xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt"
  xsi:schemaLocation="http://www.xbrl.org/2003/linkbase http://www.xbrl.org/2003/xbrl-linkbase-2003-12-31.xsd">
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#DocumentDocumentandEntityInformation" roleURI="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/DocumentDocumentandEntityInformation"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#IMetrix_StatementOfFinancialPositionClassified" roleURI="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/StatementOfFinancialPositionClassified"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#IMetrix_StatementOfFinancialPositionClassifiedParen" roleURI="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/StatementOfFinancialPositionClassifiedParenthetical"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#IMetrix_StatementOfIncomeAlternative" roleURI="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/StatementOfIncomeAlternative"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#IMetrix_StatementOfCashFlowsIndirect" roleURI="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/StatementOfCashFlowsIndirect"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#IMetrix_NotesToFinancialStatementsOrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsDisclosureTextBlock" roleURI="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsOrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsDisclosureTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#IMetrix_NotesToFinancialStatementsScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTextBlock" roleURI="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#IMetrix_NotesToFinancialStatementsDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsDisclosureTextBlock" roleURI="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsDisclosureTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#IMetrix_NotesToFinancialStatementsRestructuringAndImpairmentChargesDisclosureTextBlock" roleURI="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsRestructuringAndImpairmentChargesDisclosureTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#IMetrix_NotesToFinancialStatementsLongTermDebtTextBlock" roleURI="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsLongTermDebtTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#IMetrix_NotesToFinancialStatementsScheduleOfGuaranteeObligationsTextBlock" roleURI="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsScheduleOfGuaranteeObligationsTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#IMetrix_NotesToFinancialStatementsDisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsShareBasedPaymentsTextBlock" roleURI="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsDisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsShareBasedPaymentsTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#IMetrix_NotesToFinancialStatementsStockholdersEquityNoteDisclosureTextBlock" roleURI="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsStockholdersEquityNoteDisclosureTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#IMetrix_NotesToFinancialStatementsComprehensiveIncomeNoteTextBlock" roleURI="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsComprehensiveIncomeNoteTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#IMetrix_NotesToFinancialStatementsPropertyProfessionalAndGeneralLiabilityInsuranceDisclosureTextBlock" roleURI="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsPropertyProfessionalAndGeneralLiabilityInsuranceDisclosureTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#IMetrix_NotesToFinancialStatementsCommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock" roleURI="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsCommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#IMetrix_NotesToFinancialStatementsIncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock" roleURI="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsIncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#IMetrix_NotesToFinancialStatementsEarningsPerShareTextBlock" roleURI="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsEarningsPerShareTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#IMetrix_NotesToFinancialStatementsFairValueMeasurementInputsDisclosureTextBlock" roleURI="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsFairValueMeasurementInputsDisclosureTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#IMetrix_NotesToFinancialStatementsBusinessCombinationDisclosureTextBlock" roleURI="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsBusinessCombinationDisclosureTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#IMetrix_NotesToFinancialStatementsScheduleOfNewAccountingPronouncementsAndChangesInAccountingPrinciplesTextBlock" roleURI="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsScheduleOfNewAccountingPronouncementsAndChangesInAccountingPrinciplesTextBlock"/>
  <roleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#IMetrix_NotesToFinancialStatementsScheduleOfSubsequentEventsTextBlock" roleURI="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsScheduleOfSubsequentEventsTextBlock"/>
  <arcroleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#all" arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all"/>
  <arcroleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#dimension-default" arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default"/>
  <arcroleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#dimension-domain" arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain"/>
  <arcroleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#domain-member" arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member"/>
  <arcroleRef xlink:type="simple" xlink:href="http://www.xbrl.org/2005/xbrldt-2005.xsd#hypercube-dimension" arcroleURI="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension"/>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/DocumentDocumentandEntityInformation">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_AmendmentFlag" xlink:label="dei_AmendmentFlag"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate" xlink:label="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus" xlink:label="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus" xlink:label="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate" xlink:label="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_DocumentType" xlink:label="dei_DocumentType"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityCentralIndexKey" xlink:label="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityFilerCategory" xlink:label="dei_EntityFilerCategory"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityRegistrantName" xlink:label="dei_EntityRegistrantName"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_TradingSymbol" xlink:label="dei_TradingSymbol"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentType" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_AmendmentFlag" order="1.0300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate" order="1.0400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentFiscalYearFocus" order="1.0500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_DocumentFiscalPeriodFocus" order="1.0600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_TradingSymbol" order="1.0700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityRegistrantName" order="1.0800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityCentralIndexKey" order="1.0900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_CurrentFiscalYearEndDate" order="1.1000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityFilerCategory" order="1.1100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="dei_EntityCommonStockSharesOutstanding" order="1.1200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/StatementOfFinancialPositionClassified">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapital" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapital"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Assets" xlink:label="us-gaap_Assets"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsCurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AssetsHeldForSaleCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AssetsHeldForSaleCurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies2009" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies2009"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockValue"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNetCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNetCurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNetNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNetNoncurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesNoncurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EmployeeRelatedLiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_EmployeeRelatedLiabilitiesCurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Goodwill" xlink:label="us-gaap_Goodwill"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxesReceivable" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxesReceivable"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IntangibleAssetsNetExcludingGoodwill" xlink:label="us-gaap_IntangibleAssetsNetExcludingGoodwill"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestPayableCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestPayableCurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InventoryNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_InventoryNet"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_Liabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_Liabilities"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LitigationReserveCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LitigationReserveCurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LitigationReserveNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LitigationReserveNoncurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtAndCapitalLeaseObligations" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAndCapitalLeaseObligations"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtAndCapitalLeaseObligationsCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAndCapitalLeaseObligationsCurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermInvestmentsAndReceivablesNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermInvestmentsAndReceivablesNet"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MarketableSecuritiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_MarketableSecuritiesCurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_MinorityInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_MinorityInterest"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherAssetsCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherAssetsCurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesCurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherShortTermInvestments" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherShortTermInvestments"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockValue"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit" xlink:label="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SelfInsuranceReserve" xlink:label="us-gaap_SelfInsuranceReserve"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#thc_SelfInsuranceReserveCurrent" xlink:label="thc_SelfInsuranceReserveCurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TreasuryStockValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_TreasuryStockValue"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermInvestmentsAndReceivablesNet" order="1.0300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNetNoncurrent" order="1.0400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PropertyPlantAndEquipmentNet" order="1.0500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Goodwill" order="1.0600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IntangibleAssetsNetExcludingGoodwill" order="1.0700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Assets" order="1.0800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" order="1.0900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherShortTermInvestments" order="1.1000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_MarketableSecuritiesCurrent" order="1.1100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsReceivableNetCurrent" order="1.1200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InventoryNet" order="1.1300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxesReceivable" order="1.1400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxAssetsNetCurrent" order="1.1500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsHeldForSaleCurrent" order="1.1600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherAssetsCurrent" order="1.1700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AssetsCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsCurrent" order="1.1800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" order="1.1900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAndCapitalLeaseObligations" order="1.2000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_SelfInsuranceReserve" order="1.2100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LitigationReserveNoncurrent" order="1.2200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesNoncurrent" order="1.2300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredTaxLiabilitiesNoncurrent" order="1.2400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_Liabilities" order="1.2500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingencies2009" order="1.2600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" order="1.2700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquity" order="1.2800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtAndCapitalLeaseObligationsCurrent" order="1.2900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccountsPayableCurrent" order="1.3000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_EmployeeRelatedLiabilitiesCurrent" order="1.3100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="thc_SelfInsuranceReserveCurrent" order="1.3200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestPayableCurrent" order="1.3300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LitigationReserveCurrent" order="1.3400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherLiabilitiesCurrent" order="1.3500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrentAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesCurrent" order="1.3600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AssetsAbstract" order="1.3700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LiabilitiesAndStockholdersEquityAbstract" order="1.3800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockValue" order="1.3900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockValue" order="1.4000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdditionalPaidInCapital" order="1.4100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetOfTax" order="1.4200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RetainedEarningsAccumulatedDeficit" order="1.4300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_TreasuryStockValue" order="1.4400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquity" order="1.4500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityAbstract" order="1.4600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_MinorityInterest" order="1.4700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterestAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" order="1.4800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/StatementOfFinancialPositionClassifiedParenthetical">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment" xlink:label="us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableCurrent" xlink:label="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableCurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain_2"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAccumulatedAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAccumulatedAmortization"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockLiquidationPreference" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockLiquidationPreference"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesIssued" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesIssued"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_TreasuryStockShares" xlink:label="us-gaap_TreasuryStockShares"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-default" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain_2" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AllowanceForDoubtfulAccountsReceivableCurrent" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AccumulatedDepreciationDepletionAndAmortizationPropertyPlantAndEquipment" order="1.0300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAccumulatedAmortization" order="1.0400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" order="1.0500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesAuthorized" order="1.0600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockLiquidationPreference" order="1.0700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockSharesIssued" order="1.0800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockParOrStatedValuePerShare" order="1.0900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesAuthorized" order="1.1000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommonStockSharesIssued" order="1.1100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_TreasuryStockShares" order="1.1200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/StatementOfIncomeAlternative">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationGainLossFromDisposalOfDiscontinuedOperationBeforeIncomeTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationGainLossFromDisposalOfDiscontinuedOperationBeforeIncomeTax"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationIncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationDuringPhaseOutPeriodBeforeIncomeTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationIncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationDuringPhaseOutPeriodBeforeIncomeTax"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#thc_DiscontinuedOperationRestructuringSettlementAndImpairmentProvisionsBeforeIncomeTax" xlink:label="thc_DiscontinuedOperationRestructuringSettlementAndImpairmentProvisionsBeforeIncomeTax"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationTaxEffectOfDiscontinuedOperation" xlink:label="us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationTaxEffectOfDiscontinuedOperation"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicAbstract"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedAbstract"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestments" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestments"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfInvestments" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfInvestments"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossRelatedToLitigationSettlement" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossRelatedToLitigationSettlement"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GainsLossesOnExtinguishmentOfDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainsLossesOnExtinguishmentOfDebt"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_HealthCareOrganizationMedicalSuppliesAndDrugsExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_HealthCareOrganizationMedicalSuppliesAndDrugsExpense"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_HealthCareOrganizationRevenue" xlink:label="us-gaap_HealthCareOrganizationRevenue"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeAmountsAttributableToReportingEntityDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeAmountsAttributableToReportingEntityDisclosuresAbstract"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperations" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperations"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#thc_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxes" xlink:label="thc_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxes"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsPerBasicShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsPerBasicShare"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsPerDilutedShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsPerDilutedShare"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxAbstract"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxAttributableToReportingEntity" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxAttributableToReportingEntity"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxPerBasicShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxPerBasicShare"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxPerDilutedShare" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxPerDilutedShare"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestExpense"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LaborAndRelatedExpense" xlink:label="us-gaap_LaborAndRelatedExpense"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OtherCostAndExpenseOperating" xlink:label="us-gaap_OtherCostAndExpenseOperating"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PreferredStockDividends" xlink:label="us-gaap_PreferredStockDividends"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProfitLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProfitLoss"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProvisionForDoubtfulAccounts" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProvisionForDoubtfulAccounts"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RestructuringSettlementAndImpairmentProvisions" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestructuringSettlementAndImpairmentProvisions"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" xlink:label="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicAbstract" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedAbstract" order="1.0300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsPerBasicShare" order="1.0400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxPerBasicShare" order="1.0500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasicAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareBasic" order="1.0600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsPerDilutedShare" order="1.0700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxPerDilutedShare" order="1.0800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDilutedAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareDiluted" order="1.0900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeAmountsAttributableToReportingEntityDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperations" order="1.1000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeAmountsAttributableToReportingEntityDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxAttributableToReportingEntity" order="1.1100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeAmountsAttributableToReportingEntityDisclosuresAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLoss" order="1.1200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationIncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationDuringPhaseOutPeriodBeforeIncomeTax" order="1.1300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxAbstract" xlink:to="thc_DiscontinuedOperationRestructuringSettlementAndImpairmentProvisionsBeforeIncomeTax" order="1.1400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationGainLossFromDisposalOfDiscontinuedOperationBeforeIncomeTax" order="1.1500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationTaxEffectOfDiscontinuedOperation" order="1.1600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTax" order="1.1700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_LaborAndRelatedExpense" order="1.1800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_HealthCareOrganizationMedicalSuppliesAndDrugsExpense" order="1.1900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProvisionForDoubtfulAccounts" order="1.2000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_OtherCostAndExpenseOperating" order="1.2100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization" order="1.2200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestructuringSettlementAndImpairmentProvisions" order="1.2300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossRelatedToLitigationSettlement" order="1.2400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_HealthCareOrganizationRevenue" order="1.2500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingExpensesAbstract" order="1.2600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OperatingIncomeLoss" order="1.2700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestExpense" order="1.2800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainsLossesOnExtinguishmentOfDebt" order="1.2900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossOnInvestments" order="1.3000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfInvestments" order="1.3100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="thc_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsBeforeIncomeTaxes" order="1.3200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" order="1.3300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromContinuingOperationsIncludingPortionAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" order="1.3400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationsNetOfTaxAbstract" order="1.3500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProfitLoss" order="1.3600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_PreferredStockDividends" order="1.3700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetIncomeLossAttributableToNoncontrollingInterest" order="1.3800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeAmountsAttributableToReportingEntityDisclosuresAbstract" order="1.4000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareAbstract" order="1.4100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract" order="1.4200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingBasic" order="1.4300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfSharesOutstandingAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_WeightedAverageNumberOfDilutedSharesOutstanding" order="1.4400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/StatementOfCashFlowsIndirect">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsNoncashItemsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesOther" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsNoncashItemsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesOther"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecrease" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecrease"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesDiscontinuedOperations" xlink:label="us-gaap_CashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesDiscontinuedOperations"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#thc_ConstructionOfNewAndReplacementHospitals" xlink:label="thc_ConstructionOfNewAndReplacementHospitals"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" xlink:label="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization" xlink:label="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationIncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationBeforeIncomeTax" xlink:label="us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationIncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationBeforeIncomeTax"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#thc_DistributionsReceivedFromReclassificationOfReserveFund" xlink:label="thc_DistributionsReceivedFromReclassificationOfReserveFund"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfInvestments" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfInvestments"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GainLossRelatedToLitigationSettlement" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainLossRelatedToLitigationSettlement"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_GainsLossesOnExtinguishmentOfDebt" xlink:label="us-gaap_GainsLossesOnExtinguishmentOfDebt"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxesPaidNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxesPaidNet"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilities"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsReceivable" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsReceivable"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInIncomeTaxesReceivable" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInIncomeTaxesReceivable"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#thc_IncreaseDecreaseInInventoriesAndOtherAssetsCurrent" xlink:label="thc_IncreaseDecreaseInInventoriesAndOtherAssetsCurrent"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingLiabilities" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingLiabilities"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_InterestPaidNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_InterestPaidNet"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromOtherInvestingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromOtherInvestingActivities"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#thc_PaymentsForRestructuringAndLitigationCosts" xlink:label="thc_PaymentsForRestructuringAndLitigationCosts"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsOfDebtIssuanceCosts" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDebtIssuanceCosts"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsOfDividendsMinorityInterest" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDividendsMinorityInterest"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsOfDividendsPreferredStockAndPreferenceStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDividendsPreferredStockAndPreferenceStock"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesGross" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesGross"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireMarketableSecurities" xlink:label="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireMarketableSecurities"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#thc_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipmentForContinuingOperations" xlink:label="thc_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipmentForContinuingOperations"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#thc_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipmentForDiscontinuedOperations" xlink:label="thc_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipmentForDiscontinuedOperations"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromDivestitureOfBusinesses" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromDivestitureOfBusinesses"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#thc_ProceedsFromInterestRateSwapAgreement" xlink:label="thc_ProceedsFromInterestRateSwapAgreement"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfConvertiblePreferredStock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfConvertiblePreferredStock"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfLongTermDebtAndCapitalSecuritiesNet" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfLongTermDebtAndCapitalSecuritiesNet"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromPaymentsForOtherFinancingActivities" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromPaymentsForOtherFinancingActivities"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleAndMaturityOfOtherInvestments" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleAndMaturityOfOtherInvestments"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#thc_ProceedsFromSaleOfMarketableSecuritiesLongTermInvestmentsAndOtherAssets" xlink:label="thc_ProceedsFromSaleOfMarketableSecuritiesLongTermInvestmentsAndOtherAssets"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProfitLoss" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProfitLoss"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ProvisionForDoubtfulAccounts" xlink:label="us-gaap_ProvisionForDoubtfulAccounts"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebtAndCapitalSecurities" xlink:label="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebtAndCapitalSecurities"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_RestructuringSettlementAndImpairmentProvisions" xlink:label="us-gaap_RestructuringSettlementAndImpairmentProvisions"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation" xlink:label="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract" xlink:label="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_UnrealizedGainLossOnDerivatives" xlink:label="us-gaap_UnrealizedGainLossOnDerivatives"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DepreciationAndAmortization" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProvisionForDoubtfulAccounts" order="1.0300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossOnSaleOfInvestments" order="1.0400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DeferredIncomeTaxExpenseBenefit" order="1.0500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ShareBasedCompensation" order="1.0600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RestructuringSettlementAndImpairmentProvisions" order="1.0700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_UnrealizedGainLossOnDerivatives" order="1.0800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="thc_ProceedsFromInterestRateSwapAgreement" order="1.0900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainLossRelatedToLitigationSettlement" order="1.1000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_GainsLossesOnExtinguishmentOfDebt" order="1.1100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_DiscontinuedOperationIncomeLossFromDiscontinuedOperationBeforeIncomeTax" order="1.1200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsNoncashItemsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesOther" order="1.1300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsReceivable" order="1.1400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract" xlink:to="thc_IncreaseDecreaseInInventoriesAndOtherAssetsCurrent" order="1.1500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInIncomeTaxesReceivable" order="1.1600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInAccountsPayableAndAccruedLiabilities" order="1.1700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOtherOperatingLiabilities" order="1.1800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_RepaymentsOfLongTermDebtAndCapitalSecurities" order="1.1900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfLongTermDebtAndCapitalSecuritiesNet" order="1.2000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDebtIssuanceCosts" order="1.2100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromIssuanceOfConvertiblePreferredStock" order="1.2200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDividendsPreferredStockAndPreferenceStock" order="1.2300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsOfDividendsMinorityInterest" order="1.2400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromPaymentsForOtherFinancingActivities" order="1.2500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivities" order="1.2600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="thc_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipmentForContinuingOperations" order="1.2700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="thc_ConstructionOfNewAndReplacementHospitals" order="1.2800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="thc_PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipmentForDiscontinuedOperations" order="1.2900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireBusinessesGross" order="1.3000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromDivestitureOfBusinesses" order="1.3100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="thc_ProceedsFromSaleOfMarketableSecuritiesLongTermInvestmentsAndOtherAssets" order="1.3200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProceedsFromSaleAndMaturityOfOtherInvestments" order="1.3300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsToAcquireMarketableSecurities" order="1.3400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="thc_DistributionsReceivedFromReclassificationOfReserveFund" order="1.3500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromOtherInvestingActivities" order="1.3600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivities" order="1.3700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ProfitLoss" order="1.3800" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_AdjustmentsToReconcileNetIncomeLossToCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesAbstract" order="1.3900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingCapitalAbstract" order="1.4000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="thc_PaymentsForRestructuringAndLitigationCosts" order="1.4100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivitiesDiscontinuedOperations" order="1.4200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities" order="1.4300" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInInvestingActivitiesAbstract" order="1.4400" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_NetCashProvidedByUsedInFinancingActivitiesAbstract" order="1.4500" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsPeriodIncreaseDecrease" order="1.4600" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue" order="1.4700" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract" order="1.4900" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_InterestPaidNet" order="1.5000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_SupplementalCashFlowInformationAbstract" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxesPaidNet" order="1.5100" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsOrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsDisclosureTextBlock">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsDisclosureTextBlock"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_OrganizationConsolidationAndPresentationOfFinancialStatementsDisclosureTextBlock" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTextBlock">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTextBlock"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfAccountsNotesLoansAndFinancingReceivableTextBlock" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsDisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsDisclosureTextBlock">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsDisclosureTextBlock"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisposalGroupsIncludingDiscontinuedOperationsDisclosureTextBlock" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsRestructuringAndImpairmentChargesDisclosureTextBlock">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#thc_RestructuringAndImpairmentChargesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="thc_RestructuringAndImpairmentChargesDisclosureTextBlock"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="thc_RestructuringAndImpairmentChargesDisclosureTextBlock" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsLongTermDebtTextBlock">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_LongTermDebtTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_LongTermDebtTextBlock"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_LongTermDebtTextBlock" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsScheduleOfGuaranteeObligationsTextBlock">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfGuaranteeObligationsTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGuaranteeObligationsTextBlock"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfGuaranteeObligationsTextBlock" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsDisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsShareBasedPaymentsTextBlock">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsShareBasedPaymentsTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsShareBasedPaymentsTextBlock"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_DisclosureOfCompensationRelatedCostsShareBasedPaymentsTextBlock" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsStockholdersEquityNoteDisclosureTextBlock">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StockholdersEquityNoteDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityNoteDisclosureTextBlock"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StockholdersEquityNoteDisclosureTextBlock" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsComprehensiveIncomeNoteTextBlock">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNoteTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNoteTextBlock"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ComprehensiveIncomeNoteTextBlock" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsPropertyProfessionalAndGeneralLiabilityInsuranceDisclosureTextBlock">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="thc-20100930.xsd#thc_PropertyProfessionalAndGeneralLiabilityInsuranceDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="thc_PropertyProfessionalAndGeneralLiabilityInsuranceDisclosureTextBlock"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="thc_PropertyProfessionalAndGeneralLiabilityInsuranceDisclosureTextBlock" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsCommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_CommitmentsAndContingenciesDisclosureTextBlock" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsIncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_IncomeTaxDisclosureTextBlock" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsEarningsPerShareTextBlock">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_EarningsPerShareTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareTextBlock"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_EarningsPerShareTextBlock" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsFairValueMeasurementInputsDisclosureTextBlock">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementInputsDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementInputsDisclosureTextBlock"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_FairValueMeasurementInputsDisclosureTextBlock" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsBusinessCombinationDisclosureTextBlock">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_BusinessCombinationDisclosureTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationDisclosureTextBlock"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_BusinessCombinationDisclosureTextBlock" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsScheduleOfNewAccountingPronouncementsAndChangesInAccountingPrinciplesTextBlock">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfNewAccountingPronouncementsAndChangesInAccountingPrinciplesTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfNewAccountingPronouncementsAndChangesInAccountingPrinciplesTextBlock"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfNewAccountingPronouncementsAndChangesInAccountingPrinciplesTextBlock" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
  <definitionLink xlink:type="extended" xlink:role="http://www.tenethealth.com/taxonomy/role/NotesToFinancialStatementsScheduleOfSubsequentEventsTextBlock">
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_EntityDomain" xlink:label="dei_EntityDomain"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/non-gaap/dei-2009-01-31.xsd#dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:label="dei_LegalEntityAxis"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_ScheduleOfSubsequentEventsTextBlock" xlink:label="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSubsequentEventsTextBlock"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementLineItems"/>
    <loc xlink:type="locator" xlink:href="http://taxonomies.xbrl.us/us-gaap/2009/elts/us-gaap-2009-01-31.xsd#us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:label="us-gaap_StatementTable"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/dimension-domain" xlink:from="dei_LegalEntityAxis" xlink:to="dei_EntityDomain" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/all" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_StatementTable" order="100.0000" xbrldt:closed="true" xbrldt:contextElement="segment" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/domain-member" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementLineItems" xlink:to="us-gaap_ScheduleOfSubsequentEventsTextBlock" order="1.0200" priority="2" use="optional"/>
    <definitionArc xlink:type="arc" xlink:arcrole="http://xbrl.org/int/dim/arcrole/hypercube-dimension" xlink:from="us-gaap_StatementTable" xlink:to="dei_LegalEntityAxis" order="1.0000" priority="2" use="optional"/>
  </definitionLink>
</linkbase>
