Slap Tears

SLAP (tears) is an acronym for Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior.   Whereas a Bankart tear is the term we use for anterior labral tears, SLAP refers to the upper-most part of the labrum called the superior labrum.  This is where the biceps tendon attaches to the shoulder joint.  Most of the time a SLAP tear occurs traumatically from a sudden jerk to the shoulder, but sometimes they are found incidentally during shoulder arthroscopy (for a different reason).

There are certain tests that can be done to identify this injury, or distinguish this injury from a bankart tear or a rotator cuff tear.  A classification system is used to delineate which type of tear is found; most are type 1 or 2.  Some need to be fixed while others may do well with simple debridement (shaving).  Although most occur in younger athletes or work injuries they can occur in the older population from degeneration of the labral tissue.  In this case sometimes we perform a biceps tenotomy (cut the biceps tendon) which eliminates the pulling stress on this part of the labrum (sometimes the biceps tendon is surgically reattached to the humeral head – biceps tenodesis)

Center for Bone & Joint Disease (352) 596-0900

Similar to a bankart tear they can be fixed arthroscopically in an outpatient surgery center. Through small portals the superior labrum can be reattached to the glenoid.  Physical therapy is absolutely mandatory for good results. Please refer to the pictures for before and after shots of what a SLAP tear and repair look like.

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Dr. Jared Salinsky – Orthopedic Surgeon