Research & Academic Exchange

[2023 Taiwan Association of Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Mid-Year Symposium] [Adhesive Capsulitis and Refractory Neck/Shoulder Pain] [TAME]

Author: Bow Wang, M.D.

[2023 Taiwan Association of Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Mid-Year Symposium] [Adhesive Capsulitis and Refractory Neck/Shoulder Pain] [TAME] — related image 1

Today, I am honored to be invited by Dr. Wu Juehong, Secretary-General of the Taiwan Neurological Society (TNMSKUS), and Dr. Su Jiongrui, Deputy Secretary-General, to participate in the 2023 Midterm Conference.

At this conference, the juniors learned detailed shoulder joint anatomy from Dr. Wu Wei-ting of the Rehabilitation Department at National Taiwan University, MRI angiography of various shoulder joint diseases from Dr. Yu Chih-wei of the Department of Imaging Medicine at National Taiwan University, shoulder joint injection techniques from Dr. Hung Chen-yu, director of Li-cheng Clinic, witnessed various shoulder arthroscopic diseases and treatments from Dr. Chang Tsung-hsun of the Department of Orthopedics at National Taiwan University Hospital, and witnessed various occupational injuries and treatments for musicians from Dr. Su Jiong-rui of the Rehabilitation Department at Chi Mei Hospital.

[2023 Taiwan Association of Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Mid-Year Symposium] [Adhesive Capsulitis and Refractory Neck/Shoulder Pain] [TAME] — related image 2
Thank you to the Taiwan Neurological Medical Association for the invitation. The picture shows Chairman Dr. Wang Ting-kuei and Vice Chairman Dr. Chen Wen-hsiang presiding over the event. On the left is Dr. Hsu Shao-kang from the Rehabilitation Department of National Taiwan University explaining shoulder nerve block. On the right is Dr. Su Jiong-rui from the Rehabilitation Department of Chi Mei University giving a lecture on occupational injuries to musicians.

[2023 Taiwan Association of Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Mid-Year Symposium] [Adhesive Capsulitis and Refractory Neck/Shoulder Pain] [TAME] — related image 3
I also took this opportunity to share a basic introduction, a review of important literature, and relevant treatment experience from National Cheng Kung University regarding the application of Transarterial Microembolization (TAME) in adhesive capsulitis/frozen shoulder and varicose veins.

Transarterial Microembolization (TAME), administered via arterial injection, embolizes and blocks abnormal new microvessels and related pain nerve innervations caused by arthritis, thereby improving pain caused by chronic joint inflammation.

However, Bow Wang, M.D. reminds users that transarterial embolization (TAE) for adhesive capsulitis/frozen shoulder and angina pectoris also has limitations. The main indication is a pain index exceeding 5 points, with no significant improvement after more than three months of various treatments.

Furthermore, differential diagnosis with other common shoulder joint diseases is necessary. In addition to clinical symptoms, X-rays, ultrasound, and even MRI can aid in diagnosis.

Furthermore, this treatment is not suitable in the following situations:

1. Severe tendon or ligament damage or rupture
2. Pain accompanied by other nerve compression symptoms
3. Poor kidney function (eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73m2)
4. Low platelet count, abnormal coagulation function
5. The patient is unable to lie flat for two hours
6. Pregnancy

Treatment side effects may include local hematoma and bruising at the puncture site; temporary local discoloration at the embolization site may occur, which will improve and disappear within minutes to a month.

It is recommended that patients undergo a detailed evaluation by a physician to confirm the true source of pain and the diagnosis, and have a thorough discussion with their doctor and family to understand the treatment process and related precautions before receiving treatment for better assurance.

This page is for medical education and academic communication. It does not replace individual diagnosis or treatment advice.

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