Labral (SLAP)
A Superior Labrum Anterior & Posterior (SLAP) tear is a form of a shoulder injury. The superior portion of the shoulder labrum is injured when a SLAP rupture occurs. The biceps are linked to the superior section of the labrum.
The labrum is a cup-shaped rim of hard, fibrous tissue that cushions the shoulder joint’s socket, stabilizes it, and supports the ball and socket joint. Repetitive usage of the shoulder or severe trauma are common causes of SLAP tears. The labrum often wears down over time, resulting in SLAP tears.
If you think you have injured your shoulder, schedule an appointment with Ceda Orthopedic Group.
How is the labral (SLAP) procedure performed?
The first line of treatment for SLAP rips is usually nonsurgical. An orthopedic shoulder specialist at Ceda Orthopedic Group may prescribe anti-inflammatory medicine to reduce pain and swelling, followed by physical therapy exercises to toughen the shoulder and restore range of motion and function, depending on the severity of your injury.
When nonsurgical treatment fails to alleviate symptoms, or you’ve suffered a more severe injury, arthroscopic surgery may be suggested. Arthroscopic shoulder surgery is a procedure in which surgeons use small incisions to introduce a compact camera into a patient’s shoulder.
The surgeon may see the camera’s footage on a video monitor screen once it’s been placed. The surgeon can determine which surgical measures to perform by referring to the video feed. The torn section of the labrum may be removed, or the torn area of the labrum may be reattached by stitches. On an individual patient basis, our surgeons choose the optimum method of repair.
Who is a candidate for labral (SLAP) surgery?
Athletes are also vulnerable, especially if their sport requires a lot of overhead movement or power. Baseball players, volleyball players, tennis players, and swimmers, for example, are at a higher risk of acquiring a shoulder injury.
Benefits of labral (SLAP) surgery
By reattaching the labrum in its usual position, a SLAP repair restores the normal anatomy of the shoulder, and once healed, the SLAP repair allows normal function of the previously injured labrum and biceps attachment.
What are the risks of SLAP surgery?
Shoulder arthroscopy usually results in no problems for the majority of patients. Still, like with any surgery, there are potential dangers. The majority of these are minor and treatable. Infection, excessive bleeding, blood clots, shoulder stiffness, and damage to blood vessels or nerves are all possible complications of arthroscopy.
What is recovery like after the labral (SLAP) surgery?
The healing time is determined by several factors, including the location of the tear, its severity, and the surgical repair quality. The labrum is thought to take at least four to six weeks to reattach itself to the bone rim, and another four to six weeks to strengthen. Once the labrum has healed to the edge of the bone, it should be gradually subjected to stress to gain strength. It’s crucial not to hurt it again while it’s recovering.
How to book an appointment with Ceda Orthopedic Group orthopedic for labral (SLAP) surgery?
The length of recovery after a SLAP surgery depends on several factors, including the repair’s strength and the surgeon’s preferences. Following a SLAP repair, a period of restricted motion is usually maintained for around six weeks. Some passive mobility is allowed during this first period of recovery to avoid shoulder stiffness. The torn labrum heals to the bone in its correct location in the first phase.
To make it easier for you, we offer transportation to our patients who might need it. That way, if you receive a labral (SLAP), all you need to worry about is showing up to the procedure and healing afterward! For surgery patients, we strive to relieve stress and pressure during the surgery process.
Want to learn more about labral (SLAP)? Contact Ceda Orthopedic Group today!
Ceda Orthopedic Group’s Miami orthopedic surgeons can perform Labral (SLAP) Surgery. First, we may prescribe anti-inflammatory medicine to reduce pain and swelling, followed by physical therapy exercises to toughen the shoulder and restore range of motion and function, depending on the severity of your injury.
Schedule an appointment with a Ceda Orthopedic Surgeon, and we will determine if your shoulder pain or injury could be reduced with a labral (SLAP) surgery during this initial appointment. If you need transportation, make sure to mention that when you book your appointment!
Contact Ceda Orthopedic Group to book an appointment with one of our medical physicians to help with your shoulder pain.
