Successful Transarterial Embolisation for Recurrent Subacromial-subdeltoid Bursitis: Case Report

An 83-year-old man presented with chronic right shoulder pain and stiffness from recurrent subacromial-subdeltoid bursitis associated with rotator cuff tears, despite initial conservative measures. He refused surgery but agreed to transarterial embolization. The first transarterial embolization was performed with 1:1 lipiodol:iohexol emulsion, but provided no significant symptom relief. A repeat transarterial embolization demonstrated recanalization in several branches and new neovascularity. These were successfully embolized with 100 μm embozene particles. Post-procedure, his pain score on the numerical rating scale improved from 6 to 2 at rest and 7 to 3 during motion, no longer requiring regular analgesics. Follow-up ultrasound showed sustained resolution of bursal effusion up to 18 months. This case suggests the efficacy of transarterial embolization in treating recurrent subacromial-subdeltoid bursitis.