Shoulder Embolization (Shoulder TAME)

Shoulder TAME stands for Transcatheter Arterial Micro-Embolization of the shoulder. It is a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure that reduces chronic shoulder pain caused by inflammation. It is also referred to clinically as shoulder embolization or transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE). It uses the same well-established embolization technique that interventional radiologists have used for decades in procedures such as genicular artery embolization (GAE) and uterine fibroid embolization — applied here to the small arteries around the shoulder.

• When a shoulder joint has long-standing inflammation, it can develop abnormal, “overactive” blood vessels (neovascularization) that contribute to ongoing inflammation and pain.
• During the procedure, your physician guides a thin catheter to the small arteries around the shoulder and releases tiny particles to gently reduce blood flow to these abnormal vessels.
• Decreasing this abnormal blood flow reduces inflammation and the pain signals that travel with these vessels, which may improve pain, motion, and function.

Shoulder embolization has most often been used for frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis), and also for rotator cuff–related shoulder pain and tendinopathy. It is indicated specifically in people whose pain has not improved enough with conservative care. A consultation and imaging review determine whether it may be appropriate for your specific condition.

Embolization itself is a well-established, routine interventional radiology technique used for decades in other parts of the body. Using it for the shoulder is a newer, emerging application that is supported by a large body of published clinical research — including a U.S. clinical trial and an international multicenter trial. As with any emerging treatment, we will discuss the treatment options with you during your consultation.

The published literature on shoulder embolization is supportive and high quality, particularly for patients with chronic shoulder pain driven by abnormal inflammatory conditions, such as adhesive capsulitis, rotator cuff disease, and refractory nighttime shoulder pain. Individual prospective and multicenter studies have shown meaningful reductions in pain, improved range of motion, and better shoulder function after embolization, with a very favorable safety profile.

Most importantly, a recent systematic review and meta-analysis pooling data from 12 studies found that shoulder embolization was associated with substantial improvements in pain, mobility, and functional outcomes. Across the pooled literature, patients experienced clinically meaningful symptom improvement, and reported complications were generally minor. Taken together, the research suggests that shoulder embolization is an excellent minimally invasive treatment option for appropriately selected patients with persistent shoulder pain who have not improved adequately with conservative therapy.

You may be a candidate if you:

• Have persistent shoulder pain or stiffness, often including night-time pain
• Have tried physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medication, or steroid injections without lasting relief
• Want to avoid or delay surgery, or are not an ideal surgical candidate

Our specialists will review your history, symptoms, and imaging (such as X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI) to determine whether shoulder embolization may be right for you.

• It is performed with local anesthesia (and light sedation if needed) — no general anesthesia is required.
• A physician places a thin catheter into an artery, usually through the wrist or groin, and guides it to the small arteries around the shoulder using imaging.
• Tiny particles are delivered to the abnormal vessels contributing to inflammation.
• The procedure typically takes about 1–2 hours, and most patients go home the same day.

Shoulder embolization (TAME) is a low-risk procedure, with no major or severe complications reported and only mild, temporary side effects such as soreness at the access site, a brief low-grade fever the night of the procedure, itching, or temporary skin discoloration. Your physician will review the specific risks and benefits with you before scheduling.

• Most patients return to normal daily activities within a few days.
• Mild soreness is common for a short period.
• Your care team will provide a follow-up plan and physical therapy recommendations when appropriate.

Many patients begin to notice pain improvement within the first weeks, with continued improvement over the following months.

A steroid injection delivers anti-inflammatory medication into or around the joint and often provides temporary relief. Shoulder embolization instead targets the abnormal blood vessels that drive ongoing inflammation in the joint. It is beneficial in people whose pain has not improved enough with conservative options like injections, physical therapy, and medication.

• Conservative care (anti-inflammatories, physical therapy, steroid injections) is typically the first-line approach.
• Shoulder embolization is a minimally invasive, outpatient option studied for pain that persists despite conservative care — it helps patients defer or avoid surgery.
• Surgery (such as manipulation under anesthesia, capsular release, arthroscopy, or rotator cuff repair) remains appropriate for many patients.

The best approach depends on your specific situation. Our physicians will perform a clinical consultation and help you decide the optimal course of treatment.

Coverage varies by plan. Our team will verify your benefits, explain any out-of-pocket costs, and review self-pay options with you before your procedure.

Preferred Vascular Group offers shoulder embolization in Northeast Ohio at our Akron (Munroe Falls), Cleveland East (Beachwood), and Cleveland West (Westlake) locations. Our care is led by Dr. Maharshi Rajdev, one of the region's most experienced physicians in musculoskeletal embolization.

The first step is a consultation. We'll review your symptoms, prior treatments, and imaging, and honestly discuss whether shoulder embolization may be an appropriate option for you. Schedule a consultation here or contact the location nearest you.