SLAP Repair

Good candidates for SLAP Repair are typically younger, active individuals who have experienced a shoulder injury resulting in a SLAP tear. This injury often results from repetitive shoulder movements in sports or activities (like weightlifting or throwing sports) or from acute traumas such as a fall on an outstretched hand. Candidates often report pain, a catching or locking sensation in the shoulder, loss of strength, or decreased range of motion.

SLAP Repair is usually performed arthroscopically, which is a minimally invasive surgical method. First, a few small incisions are made around the shoulder. Then, an arthroscope, a small camera, is inserted through one of the incisions to clearly visualize the shoulder joint on a monitor.  Tiny surgical tools are then inserted through the other incisions to repair the torn labrum. This can involve removing the torn piece or reattaching it to the bone using special anchors and sutures.

Recovery time can vary greatly depending on the individual, the extent of the injury, and the demands of their job or sport. Generally, patients may return to light activities or a desk job within a few weeks.

However, a full return to heavy manual labor or sports, especially those involving overhead movements, can take several months. This allows time for the labrum to heal and for the patient to regain strength and mobility through physical therapy.

Immediately after surgery, your shoulder will likely be in a sling to limit movement and assist in the healing process. You will go home the same day from surgery. You can expect some pain and discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed medications.

Physical therapy plays a vital role in recovery, and usually begins a few weeks after surgery:

• Early Stage (Weeks 1-4): The primary goals are to manage pain, decrease inflammation, and gently start increasing range of motion.
• Middle Stage (Weeks 4-12): As the labrum heals, the focus will shift to restoring full range of motion, strength, and flexibility.
• Late Stage (Weeks 12 and beyond): The final stage includes sport or activity-specific exercises to prepare for a safe return to these activities.

Although SLAP Repair is generally safe, potential risks include:

• Infection: This risk is less than 1%, as antibiotics are given around the time of surgery.
• Nerve or blood vessel damage: This is rare but could cause numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm.
• Stiffness or loss of motion: Occurs in about 5% of patients.
• Re-tear or failure to heal: There’s a chance the labrum might not heal correctly or could re-tear, requiring additional surgery.

If SLAP Repair is recommended and you decide not to have surgery, potential risks include:

• Ongoing pain and discomfort: Pain associated with a SLAP tear may continue without surgical intervention.
• Decreased shoulder function: A SLAP tear can limit your shoulder’s range of motion and affect your ability to participate in certain activities or sports.
• Further shoulder damage: Continued activity with a SLAP tear might lead to further shoulder joint damage.