Osteonecrosis of the humeral head after extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy

J Bone Joint Surg Br. 2002 Jul;84(5):744-6. doi: 10.1302/0301-620x.84b5.12282.

Abstract

A 59-year-old woman with calcific tendinitis in her right shoulder underwent extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy. Three years and four months later she presented with osteonecrosis of the head of the right humerus. It is known that shock waves in patients with urological disorders can damage blood vessels. A possible reason for the development of osteonecrosis in this patient may have been damage to the blood supply of the head of the humerus.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • High-Energy Shock Waves / adverse effects*
  • High-Energy Shock Waves / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Humerus* / blood supply
  • Middle Aged
  • Osteonecrosis / etiology*
  • Shoulder Joint
  • Tendinopathy / therapy