Transarterial Microembolization (TAME) for frozen shoulder & rotator cuff pain

Transarterial Microembolization (TAME) is an advanced minimally invasive treatment designed to reduce chronic inflammation and pain associated with frozen shoulder and rotator cuff disorders by targeting abnormal inflammatory blood vessels.

Indications

• Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis) (Click here to read more on Frozen Shoulder)
• Chronic rotator cuff tendinopathy
• Persistent shoulder pain
• Shoulder inflammation resistant to conservative therapy
• Patients seeking non-surgical alternatives

Procedure

A tiny catheter is inserted through a small puncture, usually in the wrist or groin artery, under imaging guidance. Microscopic embolic particles are delivered precisely to abnormal inflamed blood vessels supplying the painful shoulder region, reducing inflammation and pain.

Benefits

• Minimally invasive outpatient treatment
• Reduced pain and inflammation
• Improved shoulder mobility
• Faster recovery compared to surgery
• Preservation of healthy surrounding tissue

Risks and Considerations

• Mild temporary discomfort after the procedure
• Rare risk of bleeding, infection, or vessel injury
• Outcomes may vary depending on severity of disease
• Physiotherapy may still be required after treatment
• Careful patient selection is important

Conclusion

TAME provides a promising minimally invasive solution for chronic shoulder pain, particularly in patients who have not responded well to conventional therapies.