What is Adhesive Capsulitis Embolization?
Adhesive capsulitis embolization is an interventional radiology treatment for frozen shoulder that offers highly effective and long-lasting relief of the pain and stiffness caused by this chronic joint disease. Much of the pain experienced in frozen shoulder comes from abnormal blood vessels that form in the lining of the joint. Embolization works by blocking these abnormal blood vessels, causing inflammation to subside.
The procedure is performed by interventional radiologists – doctors specially trained to do minimally invasive vascular procedures, such as angioplasty and embolization, to treat a variety of conditions.
During adhesive capsulitis embolization, a doctor positions a catheter through a small needle puncture in the arm and into the blood vessels that supply the joint using x-ray guidance. Once positioned, tiny microsphere particles are slowly released to slow the blood supply to the joint.