Shoulder Artery Embolization (SAE)
A Minimally Invasive Treatment for Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a painful condition that causes stiffness and reduced mobility in the shoulder joint. As inflammation develops within the joint capsule, movement becomes increasingly restricted, making everyday activities, such as reaching overhead, playing pickleball, walking dogs who tug at leashes, lifting objects, or putting on clothing, more difficult.
For many patients, frozen shoulder develops gradually and may persist for months or even years. While some cases improve over time, the condition can significantly interfere with work, sleep, and daily routines while symptoms remain active.
At California Joint Pain Institute, we offer Shoulder Artery Embolization (SAE), a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure designed to help reduce inflammation associated with frozen shoulder and improve joint function.
What Is Shoulder Artery Embolization?
Shoulder Artery Embolization (SAE) is a modern treatment that targets the abnormal blood vessels associated with chronic inflammation in the shoulder joint.
In frozen shoulder, inflammation can stimulate the growth of small abnormal blood vessels within the joint capsule. These vessels can contribute to persistent inflammation and pain.
SAE works by selectively reducing blood flow through these inflamed vessels, helping decrease inflammatory activity around the shoulder. By targeting the source of inflammation, the procedure may help relieve pain and improve shoulder mobility.
The treatment is performed using advanced imaging guidance, allowing physicians to precisely navigate a small catheter to the arteries surrounding the shoulder.
Because the procedure targets only the vessels associated with inflammation, the surrounding joint structures remain intact.
How the SAE Procedure Works
Shoulder Artery Embolization is performed as a minimally invasive outpatient procedure.
During the procedure:
- A small catheter is inserted through a tiny entry point, typically in the wrist or upper arm.
- Using specialized imaging technology, the physician guides the catheter to the small arteries supplying inflamed tissue around the shoulder joint.
- Tiny embolic particles are delivered to reduce blood flow to the abnormal vessels contributing to inflammation.
- The catheter is removed, and a small bandage is applied to the entry site.
Because the procedure does not involve large incisions or joint reconstruction, patients are typically able to return home the same day.
A Minimally Invasive Alternative to Shoulder Replacement
Shoulder Artery Embolization offers an alternative approach by addressing the inflammation associated with frozen shoulder without altering the structure of the joint.
Instead of replacing the joint, SAE focuses on reducing the inflammatory blood vessels that contribute to pain and stiffness.
Potential advantages of SAE include:
- Minimally invasive technique
- No large surgical incisions
- Outpatient treatment
- Targeted reduction of inflammation
- Preservation of the natural shoulder joint
- Shorter recovery time compared to joint replacement surgery
For some patients, this approach may help relieve symptoms and restore mobility without the need for major surgery.
Who May Be a Candidate for SAE?
Shoulder Artery Embolization may be considered for individuals who:
- Have been diagnosed with frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
- Experience persistent shoulder pain and stiffness
- Have not achieved sufficient relief with conservative treatments
- Want to explore minimally invasive alternatives to shoulder replacement surgery
A consultation and imaging evaluation are typically required to determine whether the procedure may be appropriate for a particular patient.
What to Expect After the Procedure
Following Shoulder Artery Embolization, patients usually spend a short period in recovery before returning home the same day.
Most individuals are able to resume light daily activities relatively quickly. As inflammation within the shoulder decreases, improvements in comfort and mobility may occur gradually.
Follow-up appointments allow physicians to monitor recovery and ensure the shoulder joint is responding well to treatment.
Learn More About Minimally Invasive Treatment for Frozen Shoulder
Frozen shoulder can significantly limit mobility and make routine movements painful. When symptoms persist despite conservative care, exploring additional treatment options may be helpful.
At California Joint Pain Institute, our team specializes in Shoulder Artery Embolization (SAE) and other minimally invasive procedures designed to address inflammation associated with joint conditions.
Contact California Joint Pain Institute in Irvine, CA to learn more about minimally invasive treatment options for frozen shoulder and determine whether SAE may be appropriate for your condition.