SLAP Tear

A SLAP tear is an injury to the labrum or the band of cartilage surrounding the shoulder joint. SLAP is short for superior labrum anterior and posterior. This type of injury involves the top, or superior, part of the labrum, and occurs in both the anterior (front) and posterior (back) area where it attaches to the bicep.

The type of surgical treatment recommended for SLAP tears depends on the severity of the injury and is determined after a physical exam, MRI review, and arthroscopic evaluation.

If the superior labrum is still attached but frayed, the arthroscope is used to remove the damaged tissue and re attach anything that can be attached. The recovery for this procedure requires a sling to be worn for one to two weeks and then, after two to three months of physical therapy, you can return to normal activities.

If the superior labrum is detached, the arthroscope is used to place anchors in the bone and then a graft that will be your new superior labrum. This procedure requires a sling to be worn for three weeks and then physical therapy that lasts three to four months before a return to normal activity.