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Shoulder

SLAP Repair

What is SLAP Repair?

SLAP (Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior) Repair is a surgical procedure that repairs a specific type of shoulder injury known as a SLAP tear. This tear occurs in the ring of cartilage, called the labrum, that surrounds the shoulder socket. The term “superior labrum anterior and posterior” refers to the top (superior) area of the labrum, where the tear is located, from the front (anterior) to the back (posterior) of this region.

Specializing in SLAP repair, Dr. Ben Mayo is a highly respected shoulder surgeon serving the Detroit area. He is known for his patient-centered approach and commitment to delivering top-tier care. Reach out to schedule your appointment at either his Livonia or Sterling Heights office and start your journey towards recovery.

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.

Schedule a shoulder consultation

If you’re experiencing symptoms of or have been diagnosed with a SLAP tear it’s essential to seek expert opinion from a fellowship trained shoulder surgeon such as Dr. Ben Mayo. As an expert in SLAP repair, Dr. Mayo is pleased to offer state-of-the-art techniques to his patients in the Detroit area. Contact his office today to learn about how he can help you return to the activities you love. He treats athletes and patients of all ages at his offices in Sterling Heights and Livonia, and regularly sees patients from the surrounding communities such as Troy, Canton, Macomb, Farmington Hills, and Royal Oak. Please call or make an appointment online today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Mayo.

At a Glance

Ben Mayo, MD

  • Fellowship Trained Sports Surgeon
  • Specializes in Minimally Invasive Arthroscopic Shoulder, Elbow, Hip, & Knee Surgery
  • Published over 50 peer-reviewed articles and 10 book chapters
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