Shoulder Embolization in Cocoa, FL

Yes. A majority of patients who undergo SAE report a significant improvement in shoulder pain. Pain control may continue to improve for up to 12 months after the procedure. Studies show clinical success defined as a greater than 50% improvement in shoulder pain in 85% of patients six months after SAE.

Yes. A majority of patients experience an improvement in shoulder function and range of motion following SAE. The largest clinical trial to date reports average range of motion improvement of greater than 50% for anterior elevation and greater than 200% for external rotation.

SAE has been used effectively to treat patients with frozen shoulder, nighttime shoulder pain, shoulder arthritis, and symptomatic rotator cuff tears. A prospective multicenter study of 100 patients with refractory nighttime shoulder pain from frozen shoulder or symptomatic rotator cuff tears showed that pain, range of motion, and quality of life improved progressively for patients over one, three, and six months after the procedure regardless the cause of the shoulder pain.

Any embolization procedure has the risk of non-target embolization (the beads traveling to a undesired location). Serious complications from non-target embolization during SAE performed by an experienced physician are very rare (less than 1 in 1000).

Studies report a high rate of patient satisfaction with SAE. More than 85% of patients have been reported to be satisfied with the results of the procedure six months after SAE. Patients report satisfaction with the nonsurgical, minimally invasive nature of the procedure, the lack of general anesthesia and hospital stay, and the very low risk of complications.

Patients who experience chronic shoulder pain and decreased range of motion due to frozen shoulder, symptomatic rotator cuff tears, and shoulder arthritis may benefit from SAE. Patients who have not responded to conservative therapy and wish to postpone or avoid surgery may be candidates for this minimally invasive treatment.

• Chronic knee pain sufferers: Individuals with persistent shoulder pain lasting for several months or longer, despite conservative treatments such as medications, physical therapy, and rest.
• Rotator cuff tendinopathy or tears: Patients with tendinopathy or partial tears of the rotator cuff tendons who experience significant pain and functional impairment.
• Subacromial impingement syndrome: Individuals with impingement syndrome, where the tendons of the rotator cuff are compressed during shoulder movements, leading to pain and inflammation.
• Not ideal candidates for surgery: Patients who are not good candidates for surgical intervention due to medical comorbidities, advanced age, or personal preference to avoid surgery.
• Individuals looking for a minimally invasive alternative to surgery without anesthesia, a hospital stay, or prolonged recovery.

The recovery process after shoulder embolization typically involves a short period of rest followed by a gradual return to normal activities. Patients may experience some pain or discomfort for a few days, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. It's important to follow any specific post-procedure instructions given by Dr. Mittleider to ensure proper healing. Light activities can usually be resumed within a few days, but strenuous activities should be avoided for a few weeks.

Most patients can return to their normal routine within a few days to a week after shoulder embolization, depending on the nature of their activities and how quickly they recover. Light activities and work can typically be resumed within a few days, but it's important to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for a few weeks. Dr. Mittleider will provide personalized advice based on your specific condition and recovery progress.