Our Summary

This research paper discusses a common type of shoulder injury called Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior (SLAP) lesions. These injuries are often found in people who engage in overhead sports activities. If someone has symptoms from this injury, they are usually treated with physical therapy and changes to their activities. However, if these treatments don’t work or if the person needs to maintain high levels of activity for their sport, surgery may be needed. There are different types of surgeries for this injury, with older patients often getting a surgery called biceps tenodesis and younger patients getting a SLAP repair. The best type of surgery for high-level athletes, especially baseball players, is still a topic of debate. This paper aims to review the current knowledge and research about this injury, its causes, how it’s diagnosed and treated, and how these treatments affect the patient’s ability to return to their sport or work.

FAQs

  1. What is a Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior (SLAP) lesion and who is most likely to get this type of injury?
  2. What are the common treatments for SLAP lesions, and when might surgery be considered?
  3. What are the different types of surgery for SLAP lesions, and is one type better for high-level athletes?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about arthroscopy is to follow the post-operative rehabilitation plan carefully. This may include physical therapy exercises to help improve strength and range of motion in the affected joint. It is important to follow the guidance of your healthcare provider to ensure a successful recovery and optimal outcomes from the arthroscopic procedure.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended arthroscopy are those who have not responded to conservative treatments such as physical therapy and activity modifications for conditions such as SLAP lesions. In particular, high-level athletes who need to maintain their activity levels for their sport may be recommended for arthroscopic surgery if conservative treatments have not been effective. Additionally, younger patients with SLAP lesions may be recommended for arthroscopy to repair the injury and restore function in the shoulder joint. Older patients with SLAP lesions may be recommended for biceps tenodesis surgery to address the injury and alleviate symptoms. Ultimately, the decision to recommend arthroscopy will depend on the individual patient’s symptoms, activity level, and response to conservative treatments.

Timeline

Before arthroscopy:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms of a SLAP lesion, such as shoulder pain, weakness, and instability.
  2. Patient undergoes physical therapy and activity modifications to try to alleviate symptoms.
  3. If conservative treatments are unsuccessful, patient may be recommended for surgery.

After arthroscopy:

  1. Patient undergoes arthroscopic surgery to repair the SLAP lesion.
  2. Patient goes through a recovery period, which may include physical therapy and restrictions on certain activities.
  3. Patient gradually regains strength and range of motion in the shoulder.
  4. Patient is able to return to their sport or activity, with some patients achieving full function and others experiencing limitations.
  5. Patient may require ongoing monitoring and follow-up care to ensure the success of the surgery and prevent future injuries.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is arthroscopy and how does it differ from other types of shoulder surgeries?
  2. What specific type of arthroscopic procedure will be performed for my SLAP lesion?
  3. What are the potential risks and complications associated with arthroscopy for a SLAP lesion?
  4. What is the expected recovery time and rehabilitation process after arthroscopic surgery?
  5. How will arthroscopy for a SLAP lesion affect my ability to return to my sport or physical activities?
  6. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that I should consider before opting for arthroscopic surgery?
  7. How many arthroscopic surgeries for SLAP lesions have you performed and what is your success rate?
  8. Will I need any additional follow-up appointments or treatments after the arthroscopic surgery?
  9. What should I expect in terms of pain management after the arthroscopic surgery?
  10. Is there anything specific I should do to prepare for the arthroscopic surgery and the recovery process?

Reference

Authors: LeVasseur MR, Mancini MR, Hawthorne BC, Romeo AA, Calvo E, Mazzocca AD. Journal: J ISAKOS. 2021 Jul;6(4):204-211. doi: 10.1136/jisakos-2020-000537. Epub 2021 Mar 11. PMID: 34272296