Hydrodilatation

Hydrodilatation is a therapeutic procedure designed to treat adhesive capsulitis, otherwise known as ‘Frozen Shoulder’. This condition presents as a stiff and painful shoulder joint, with very little mobility.

This procedure involves using CT guidance to inject a solution of cortisone and saline into the joint. The cortisone is designed to reduce pain and inflammation, while the saline stretches the shoulder capsule to break adhesions and allow for significantly increased range of motion. Sometimes, the Radiologist may inject a contrast agent before the saline solution, to confirm the correct placement.

This procedure should take approximately 15-30 minutes and is performed in clinic.

The level of discomfort during this procedure can vary, depending on the severity of adhesive capsulitis, but it should not be painful. Some patients report a ‘popping’ sensation as a result of the stretching capsule. Range of motion should return rapidly; however, the full pain relief benefits may be felt after 1-2 weeks.

Post procedure, you may feel increased heaviness or pressure in the shoulder or down the arm. This will be short-lived.

You should have a support person to drive you home after your appointment.

Although this is considered a safe and minimally invasive procedure, any injection comes with a small risk of:

Discomfort at injection site

  • Bleeding

  • Infection over injection site

  • Infection inside the joint (very rare)

  • Allergic reaction to medication

Contact your GP immediately if you experience any of the following:

  • Fever, chills or generally unwell in the days following the injection

  • Redness, pain or swelling at the injection site

  • A significant increase of pain in the area following the injection

Cross-sectional CT scan of a human head showing internal structures, including brain and skull.

CT Guided Hydrodilatation of the shoulder