A Simple Technique to Restore Needle Patency During Percutaneous Lavage and Aspiration of Calcific Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy. Issue 3 (8th February 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Jelsing, Elena J.; Maida, Eugene; Smith, Jay
• Is Part Of: PM&R. Volume 5:Issue 3(2013)
• Page Start: 242
• Page End: 244
• Publication Date: 2013-02-08
• Subjects: Medical rehabilitation -- Periodicals; Physical therapy -- Periodicals; Physical Therapy Modalities -- Periodicals; 615.5
• DOI: 10.1016/j.pmrj.2013.01.007
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1934-1482

Abstract

Abstract : Calcific rotator cuff tendinopathy caused by symptomatic calcium hydroxyapatite crystal deposition is a well‐established cause of shoulder pain. In refractory or acutely symptomatic cases, sonographically guided percutaneous lavage and aspiration can significantly reduce pain in approximately 60%‐92% of cases. Although the complication rate of sonographically guided percutaneous lavage and aspiration is apparently low, needle clogging attributable to impacted calcific debris has been described by several authors and in our experience can occur in daily practice. Traditionally, an inability to relieve the obstruction via needle repositioning or increased syringe plunger pressure has required needle removal and replacement. In this article, we outline a simple technique that can be used to restore patency of the obstructed lavage needle without necessitating needle removal and replacement.