SLAP Tears

• SLAP tears can occur due to acute trauma, such as a fall onto an outstretched arm or a direct blow to the shoulder.
• Repetitive overhead activities, such as throwing, lifting, or reaching, can also contribute to the development of SLAP tears over time.
• Degenerative changes associated with aging or overuse can weaken the labrum and predispose individuals to SLAP tears.

• Patients with SLAP tears may experience shoulder pain, particularly with overhead or rotational movements.
• Clicking, catching, or popping sensations in the shoulder joint may be present, along with feelings of instability.
• Decreased range of motion and weakness in the shoulder may also occur, impacting daily activities and sports performance.

• Diagnosis of SLAP tears involves a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging studies (such as MRI or MR arthrography), and diagnostic arthroscopy.
• Physical examination may reveal tenderness over the bicipital groove, positive provocative tests (such as the O’Brien’s test), and signs of instability.
• Imaging studies help visualize the extent and location of the tear, assess for associated injuries, and guide treatment planning.
• Diagnostic arthroscopy allows for direct visualization of the labrum and biceps anchor, confirming the diagnosis and guiding surgical intervention if necessary.

Conservative Management:

• Non-operative treatment may be considered for patients with mild SLAP tears or those who do not desire surgical intervention.
• Conservative measures may include rest, activity modification, physical therapy, and corticosteroid injections to alleviate pain and improve shoulder function.
• While conservative management can provide symptomatic relief for some patients, it may not fully address the underlying structural pathology in more severe cases.

SLAP Repair:

• Surgical intervention with SLAP repair aims to reattach the torn labrum and stabilize the biceps anchor, restoring shoulder stability and function.
• Indications for SLAP repair include symptomatic SLAP tears that fail to improve with conservative management and patients who desire to return to sports or activities that place high demands on the shoulder joint.
• The surgical technique may involve debridement of the torn labrum, suture anchor placement, and tensioning of the biceps tendon to restore labral integrity and biceps stability.
• Postoperative rehabilitation focuses on protecting the repaired labrum and biceps tendon, restoring shoulder range of motion and strength, and gradually progressing to functional activities to optimize outcomes.