Shoulder Artery Embolization (SAE) in Irvine, CA
What is Shoulder Artery Embolization (SAE)?
Shoulder artery embolization (SAE) is a minimally invasive procedure designed to relieve chronic shoulder pain, particularly in patients with frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis). This condition is caused by inflammation and thickening of the joint capsule, which leads to stiffness, pain, and a limited range of motion.
As inflammation develops, the body forms new, abnormal blood vessels in the shoulder joint that contribute to ongoing pain. SAE works by targeting and reducing blood flow to these abnormal vessels, helping to reduce inflammation and restore comfort — without surgery.
While SAE does not directly treat structural changes in the joint, it can significantly reduce pain and improve mobility in cases where other conservative treatments haven’t provided lasting relief.
How is Shoulder Artery
Embolization Performed?
SAE is a non-surgical, image-guided procedure performed on an outpatient basis. During the procedure, a small catheter is inserted through the wrist or groin and guided to the arteries that supply blood to the inflamed shoulder joint.
Once in position, tiny embolic particles are released into the affected arteries to
decrease blood flow to the inflamed tissues, reducing the symptoms associated with
frozen shoulder. The entire procedure typically takes less than an hour and requires only conscious sedation.
What Can I Expect During Recovery from Shoulder Artery Embolization?
Most patients experience a smooth and relatively quick recovery after SAE. Mild soreness at the catheter site is common but short-lived. Many individuals begin noticing a reduction in pain and improved mobility within a few weeks, with continued improvement over time.
There is minimal downtime, and most patients can resume daily activities within a few days. Your care team will provide personalized recovery instructions and remain available to answer questions along the way.
Am I a Good Candidate for
Shoulder Artery Embolization?
- Have persistent shoulder pain or stiffness due to frozen shoulder
- Have not experienced lasting relief from medications, physical therapy, or injections
- Want to avoid surgery or are not ready for more invasive procedures
- Are limited in your ability to perform everyday activities because of shoulder discomfort
Shoulder Artery Embolization vs. Surgery
Traditional surgical treatments for frozen shoulder can involve capsular release or manipulation under anesthesia — both of which require recovery time and carry potential risks.
In contrast, SAE is a targeted, outpatient treatment that avoids cutting or disrupting joint tissues. It allows for faster return to normal activity, fewer complications, and may delay or eliminate the need for more invasive procedures altogether.
For patients who are not ready for surgery — or for those who want a low-risk, highly tolerable option — SAE can offer meaningful symptom relief with minimal disruption to daily life.
Why Pedes Orange County?
Pedes Orange County provides advanced, minimally invasive care in a comfortable outpatient setting.
Whether you’re experiencing chronic pain from frozen shoulder or another vascular-related condition, we’re here
to help you feel better — quickly and confidently.
- Minimally invasive treatment options backed by the latest technology
- Same-day or expedited appointments are available
- Personalized care in a welcoming, modern facility
- A focus on reducing pain and improving mobility without surgery
Shoulder Artery Embolization in Irvine, CA
You don’t have to live with chronic shoulder pain or wait for frozen shoulder to resolve on its own.
At Pedes Orange County, our team offers advanced, non-surgical treatments like shoulder artery embolization to help you move freely and comfortably again.
Call us today at (949) 997-2418 to schedule your appointment, or reach out online to get in touch with our compassionate care team. We offer same-day or next-available appointments for patients in pain.
What to Expect from Your Visit to Pedes
Ultrasound
Advanced ultrasound-guided examination techniques will be used to visualize the veins, arteries, or both, in your legs. This is often used in the diagnostic process to detect the presence and extent of disease.
Consult
Once we review the results of your diagnostic tests, our physicians will collaborate with you to develop a personalized treatment plan, ensuring the best course of treatment for your specific condition.
Treatment
Your treatment plan will be personalized to you and your individual needs. At Pedes, we specialize in minimally invasive procedures and nonsurgical treatments, all of which are performed by our dedicated vascular physicians within the comfort of our state-of-the-art facility.
Follow up
We ensure our patients receive continuous care and support with regular follow-up visits. Each follow-up visit is scheduled at the time of your in-office appointment. Should you have a concern between
appointments, we encourage you to call our office and get scheduled at any time.
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