Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis)
Non-surgical, image-guided procedures to rapidly reduce inflammation and restore mobility.
Advanced IR Treatments for Frozen Shoulder
In interventional radiology, we don't just 'guess' where the needle goes. We use real-time imaging (usually Ultrasound or Fluoroscopy) to ensure the medication reaches the tiny space inside the shoulder capsule. These cutting-edge procedures offer rapid relief without the need for traditional surgery.
Advanced Treatment Options
1. Image-Guided Joint Injection (Arthrography)
The radiologist injects a mixture of a long-acting corticosteroid and a local anesthetic. Hydrodilatation (The 'Power' Version): Often, they will also inject a larger volume of sterile saline. This physically stretches the tightened, scarred joint capsule from the inside out—think of it like inflating a crumpled balloon to create more room for movement. The Goal: Rapidly reduce inflammation and physically break up some of the 'adhesions' (scar tissue).
2. TAME (Transcatheter Arterial Microembolization)
This is a newer, cutting-edge IR procedure. Chronic inflammation in frozen shoulder causes neovascularization—the growth of tiny, abnormal new blood vessels and nerve fibers which cause pain and hypersensitivity. A tiny catheter is threaded through an artery up to the shoulder. Small particles are injected to temporarily block these abnormal vessels. By 'starving' these abnormal vessels, the associated pain-sensing nerves also quiet down, turning off the 'pain signal' at the source without surgery.
Key Benefits & Advantages
Non-Surgical: No large incisions or general anesthesia required.
Precision Guided: Real-time imaging ensures exact delivery of medication.
Rapid Relief: Quickly reduces inflammation and physically breaks up adhesions.
Hydrodilatation: Effectively stretches the joint capsule to restore movement.
Outpatient: Walk-in, walk-out procedure with minimal downtime.
Related Pain Management Procedures
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Schedule an appointment with our specialists to discuss if Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis) is right for you.
