Download PDF
Semin Musculoskelet Radiol 1997; 1(2): 305-309
DOI: 10.1055/s-2008-1080153
Soft-Tissue Lesions

© 1997 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

Aspiration of Tendinous Calcific Deposits

Caroline Parlier-Cuau1 , Marc Wybier1 , Pierre Champsaur3 , Remi Nizard2 , Jean-Denis Laredo1
  • 1Department of Bone and Joint Radiology, Lariboisière Hospital, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
  • 2Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Lariboisière Hospital, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
  • 3Department of Radiology, la Timone Hospital, Marseille, France
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
18 June 2008 (online)

Also available at
    Permissions and Reprints

ABSTRACT

Needle aspiration of tendinous calcific deposits under fluoroscopic control may be a valuable tool in selected cases of painful shoulders with chronic and debilitating pain resistant to medical treatment. This article reviews the technique and results of this treatment. The aims of this procedure are (1) to evacuate a maximum amount of calcium; (2) to fragment the residual calcific deposits to facilitate its resorption during the following weeks; (3) to reduce the inflammation secondary to the presence and migration of residual calcific deposits by in situ injection of corticosteroids. Good results are obtained in 61-74% of cases. Surgical treatment should be restricted to failures of needle aspiration.

KEYWORDS

Shoulder abnormalities - calcific tendinitis - rotator cuff - steroids - needle aspiration