The Success Rate of Superior Approach Glenohumeral Injection in Patients with Frozen Shoulder

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: In treating patients with frozen shoulder, posterior and anterior approach glenohumeral injections are well known methods. But the accuracy of the above injection methods is low. In this study, we introduce the superior approach glenohumeral injection method and evaluate its success rate. METHOD: Twenty six patients who were clinically diagnosed with frozen shoulder were enrolled. Patients received a superior approach glenohumeral injection of 1 cc radiographic contrast (Urografin(R), Schering, Germany). The success of superior approach was determined by radiography study of the shoulder joint taken after the injection. RESULTS: 24 of the 26 procedures (92.3%) were judged to be accurately placed by the radiography study and there was no significant complication after the superior approach intrarticular injection. CONCLUSION: Superior approach glenohumeral injection in frozen shoulder showed the high success rate. We consider this superior approach as a very effective method. If the study for the interrater reliability is added, the superior approach will be considered to be a useful approach.