Barbotage Warsaw and Płock | Shoulder Barbotage
Effective treatment method for calcific tendinitis of the rotator cuff
Calcific tendinitis of the rotator cuff is a condition where calcium salts are deposited within the tendons of the shoulder joint. This problem affects approximately 10% of the population, most commonly individuals between the ages of 30-60, with a higher prevalence among women.
The most frequently affected tendon is the supraspinatus tendon (approx. 80% of cases). The causes of the disease have not been fully understood.
Typical symptoms, such as shoulder pain and restricted mobility, prompt patients to seek help from a doctor or physiotherapist.
One of the modern treatment methods for this condition is shoulder barbotage - a minimally invasive procedure performed under ultrasound guidance.
What is the barbotage procedure?
Barbotage is a technique of percutaneous lavage of calcific deposits in the tendon, performed under ultrasound guidance. The procedure is carried out under local anesthesia.
Under ultrasound guidance, the doctor inserts a thin needle directly into the calcific deposit. Then, using pulsatile pressure from a syringe filled with saline solution, the calcium deposits are broken up and washed out while simultaneously being aspirated.
After the procedure is completed, an anti-inflammatory medication (steroid) is administered to the subacromial bursa, which reduces the risk of inflammation after the procedure.
How does recovery progress after the barbotage procedure?
After the local anesthesia wears off, pain symptoms usually do not intensify. However, if pain occurs, the following is recommended:
- Relieving the limb (e.g., wearing a sling),
- Applying cold compresses,
- Taking pain medications as prescribed.
When can improvement be expected?
Improvement of symptoms is individual and usually occurs within 3 to 6 weeks after the procedure.
Recommendations after the barbotage procedure:
- Relieving the limb (sling) and avoiding loading it for at least 48 hours,
- Taking a break from exercises and physiotherapy for about 7-10 days,
- Beginning rehabilitation approximately 2-3 weeks after the procedure.
Possible side effects after the barbotage procedure
Like any medical procedure, barbotage may be associated with certain complications, although they occur rarely - in about 7-10% of patients:
- Subacromial bursitis - to reduce the risk, an anti-inflammatory steroid is administered after the procedure.
- Feeling of weakness or fainting - during the procedure, the patient remains conscious and should report any concerning symptoms to the doctor. If necessary, the procedure is interrupted.
- Infection or inflammation - in case of redness, swelling, increased warmth in the area of the procedure, or fever, urgent medical consultation is necessary.
- Temporary increase in blood glucose levels - particularly important in patients with diabetes.
- Skin thinning - a rare local complication.
Why choose barbotage at OpenMed?
- The procedure is performed by Dr. Marta Burbul, an experienced specialist in orthopedics and traumatology,
- We provide comfortable conditions and an individualized approach to each patient, and the procedure is performed under ultrasound guidance,
- We guarantee full support in terms of treatment and rehabilitation after the procedure,
- We have experience in treating rotator cuff disorders using minimally invasive techniques.
OpenMed Warsaw – Wola, ul. Wschowska 8
OpenMed Warsaw – Praga, ul. Wiatraczna 25
Have questions? Contact us - 22 100 45 20 or 24 337 62 66.
You can check the cost of the barbotage procedure and other services in our price list.