Treating frozen shoulder with ultrasound-guided pulsed mode radiofrequency lesioning of the suprascapular nerve: Two cases

Abstract

Objective. Many approaches to treatment of frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, including use of steroid injections, provide only short-term relief. We present a method for pulsed mode radiofrequency (PRF) lesioning of the suprascapular nerve using ultrasound guidance in patients with severe pain from frozen shoulder. Design. Patients with frozen shoulder were treated by using real-time, high-resolution ultrasound guidance to facilitate PRF lesioning of the suprascapular nerve. Setting and Patients. Two patients with frozen shoulder of a tertiary hospital were reported. Measures. Pain intensity and shoulder movement before and after procedure were recorded. Results. In the two cases presented, both patients experienced pain relief and increased shoulder flexibility for 5-6 months. Conclusion. Ultrasound can not only quickly and effectively identify the suprascapular notch and nerve, but also helps the operator manipulate and advance the needle to a more precise position. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.