Regenerative Medicine

Lavage

Explanation of procedure

Calcific tendonosis is caused by hydroxyapatite (crystalline calcium phosphate) deposition within the affected tendon.

For the procedure, a needle is introduced directly into the calcification. Using pulsed therapy with anesthetic and normal saline, the calcific deposits are broken down and aspirated resulting in debulking of the calcification. A corticosteroid is then introduced into the subacromial-subdeltoid bursa to prevent bursitis.

Post procedure treatment

First 72 hours: The treatment area is painful for the first several hours after the procedure. This is normal.

You will be given instructions regarding the type of pain medication to take from the attending Radiologist or alternatively speak with your Doctor prior to your procedure about pain management. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories and icing is acceptable and recommended if tolerated.

Avoid ANY increased activity or exercises for the first 2 weeks post procedure. You may complete normal daily activities as tolerated. Stretching can be done as often as needed. Seek professional advice on proper stretching.

Although rare, infection at the treatment site is always possible. If fever, redness and/or swelling of the skin after 72 hours is noted, consult your doctor.

4-7 days post procedure: The pain should diminish. Limit activities to those of daily living while avoiding heavy lifting or rigorous activity.

Ensure you have an appointment to begin appropriate physical therapy/rehabilitation. 2 weeks: Begin/resume rehabilitation program.

4+ weeks: It is expected that rehabilitation should take a minimum of 6 – 12 weeks. Individual patient response will be different and dependent on the specific procedure and body part treated.

Peripheral Nerve Injection

How do I prepare for my exam?

Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment time to complete the check-in process and any necessary paperwork.

Antibiotics

Please note that we will not be able to continue with your appointment if you have an active infection or are on antibiotics. The medication we use will reduce the effectiveness of the antibiotics. If you are on antibiotics, please call our booking line at (403) 244-3700 and press 2 to reschedule your appointment.

Pain Medications

Please do not stop any pain medication that has been prescribed by your doctor without consulting him or her first. Please reduce any pain medication (Advil, Tylenol, etc.) the day of your appointment, so that you have enough discomfort (but not extreme) to determine if your exam has been effective in relieving your symptoms. If you are in pain despite your medications, you do not need to decrease them.

Anti-coagulants (blood thinners)

You must have your doctor’s approval before you discontinue taking anticoagulants.

Coumadin/Warfarin

Discontinue 5 days prior to your appointment. If you have been taking Coumadin or Warfarin, you will need to have a “STAT” INR blood test done the day before your appointment. Please contact your physician for a lab requisition.

Plavix

Discontinue 7 days prior to your appointment. If you are a high-risk patient, discontinue 5 days prior to your appointment.

Pradaxa, Xarelto, or Eliquis and other blood thinners

Discontinue 5 days prior to your appointment.

We ask that you make arrangements for transportation. You will not be able to drive after your appointment for the rest of the day. Your appointment will be rebooked if you do not have a driver.

At your appointment the exam will be reviewed with you by your physician/technologist team. If you have any concerns or specific requirements, please let us know at that time and we will do our best to accommodate.

If you need to cancel or rebook, please call 403-244-3700 (press 3). We require 3 business days before the date of your appointment. (Please note that we charge a No-Show Fee of $150.00).

Tenotomy

Explanation of procedure

Consists of perforating (fenestrating) the affected tendon with a small caliber needle under ultrasound guidance. The purpose is to induce an acute lesion and cause an inflammatory response that promotes natural healing of the tendinopathy.

It is a non- invasive treatment. Local anesthesia is used and can be combined with PRP or prolotherapy. No post-procedure immobilization of the treated area is necessary. Physical therapy/rehabilitation sessions should be discussed at time of procedure.

Post treatment

First 72 hours: The treatment area is painful for the first several hours after the procedure. This is normal.

Taking anti-inflammatory drugs or applying ice is not advised. You will be given instructions regarding the type of pain medication to take from the attending Radiologist or alternatively, speak with your Doctor prior to your procedure about pain management.

Avoid ANY increased activity or exercises for the first 2 weeks post procedure. You may complete normal daily activities as tolerated. Stretching can be done as often as needed. Seek professional advice on proper stretching.

Although rare, infection at the treatment site is always possible. If fever, redness and/or swelling of the skin after 72 hours is noted, consult your doctor.

4-7 days post procedure: The pain should diminish. Limit activities to those of daily living while avoiding heavy lifting or rigorous activity.

Ensure you have an appointment to begin appropriate physical therapy/rehabilitation.

2 weeks: Begin/resume rehabilitation program.

4+ weeks: It is expected that rehabilitation should take a minimum of 6 – 12 weeks. Individual patient response will be different and dependent on the specific procedure and body part treated. Complete recovery can take up to 2 years so it is important to comply with the recommended physical therapy protocol.