SLAP Repair Surgeon in Connecticut
Repeated use of the shoulder while throwing or a fall onto the shoulder can result in a SLAP (superior labrum anterior and posterior) tear or injury. Dr. Gardner provides diagnosis and individualized nonoperative and operative treatments for the shoulder including SLAP repair in Connecticut. Dr. Gardner also provides the highest level of care during and after surgery. Contact Dr. Gardner’s office for an appointment today!
What is a SLAP Repair?
A SLAP repair is an arthroscopic shoulder procedure to treat a specific type of injury to the labrum called a SLAP tear.
Shoulder Anatomy
Your shoulder joint is a ball and socket joint made up of the upper arm bone, the shoulder blade, and the collarbone. The head of the upper arm bone fits into the socket of the shoulder joint known as the glenoid cavity. The outer edge of the glenoid is surrounded by a strong fibrous tissue called the labrum.
What is a SLAP Tear?
A superior labrum anterior and posterior tear or SLAP tear is an injury to the labrum. This injury may also involve the biceps tendon, which is attached to the top part of the labrum. The injury occurs from repeated use of the shoulder while throwing or a fall onto the shoulder. One portion of the biceps tendon connects to the superior labrum, often at the site of SLAP tears.
What are the Indications for a SLAP repair?
A SLAP repair is indicated to treat the torn labrum of the shoulder socket when conservative treatment measures such as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications) and physical therapy do not relieve the symptoms of a SLAP tear. Because of the potential involvement of the biceps tendon, some SLAP tears cause pain into the biceps tendon and muscle in the upper arm.
How is a SLAP Repair performed?
A SLAP repair is a minimally invasive surgery that uses an arthroscope, a tube with a light and camera on the end that projects images onto a monitor for your surgeon to view inside your joint. The type of SLAP repair depends on the type of tear involved and will be determined once your surgeon views the joint. The labrum is reattached to the bone using suture anchors. Sometimes, additional treatment of the biceps tendon is necessary, if it is attached to the torn part of the labrum.
What are the Steps Recommended for Postoperative Care following SLAP Repair?
After the procedure, your arm will be placed in a sling for the first several weeks to immobilize the shoulder joint and you will be advised to restrict active motion of your shoulder. Through physical therapy, you can slowly regain motion and strengthen the shoulder. You can resume sports activities after consulting with your physical therapist and surgeon. You should avoid driving for a few weeks after the surgery.
What are the Advantages of SLAP Repair?
A SLAP repair involves the reattaching of the labrum to its normal anatomical position; thereby, restoring the anatomy of the shoulder. The procedure also allows the normal functioning of the previously damaged labrum and biceps attachment.
What are the Associated Risks and Complications of SLAP Repair?
As with any surgical procedure, SLAP repair may involve certain potential risks and complications including:
- Infection
- Excessive bleeding
- Blood clots
- Shoulder stiffness
- Injury to nerves or blood vessels
