Short-term results of transcatheter arterial embolization for abnormal neovessels in patients with adhesive capsulitis: a pilot study

Background Neovessels and accompanying nerves are possible sources of pain. We postulated that transcatheter arterial embolization of abnormal neovessels would relieve pain and symptoms in patients with adhesive capsulitis. Methods Adhesive capsulitis was treated by transcatheter arterial embolization in 7 patients. Adverse events, changes in visual analog scale scores for night pain and overall shoulder pain, and changes in range of motion and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores were assessed at 1 week and at 1, 3, and 6 months after the procedure. Results Abnormal neovessels were identified at the rotator interval in all patients. No major or minor adverse events were associated with the procedures. Transcatheter arterial embolization rapidly decreased nighttime pain scores from 67 ± 14 mm to 27 ± 14 mm at 1 week after the procedure, with further improvement at 1 and 6 months (6 ± 8 mm and 2 ± 5 mm, respectively). The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score significantly improved from 17.8 ± 4.5 to 39.8 ± 12.0, 64.3 ± 13.9, and 76.2 ± 4.4 at 1, 3, and 6 months, respectively. Conclusion All patients with adhesive capsulitis had abnormal neovessels at the rotator interval. Transcatheter arterial embolization was feasible, relieved unrelenting pain, and restored shoulder function.