How is a slap repair performed and what are the different techniques used?
What is a Slap Repair?
If you are suffering from a shoulder injury, there is a chance that you may have heard the term “slap repair”. A slap repair is a surgical procedure used to repair a specific type of shoulder injury known as a “SLAP tear”. A SLAP tear is an injury to the labrum, which is a ring of tissue that surrounds the shoulder socket. This type of injury is common in sports that require a lot of overhead arm movements, such as baseball, tennis, or volleyball.
What is a SLAP Tear?
A SLAP (superior labrum from anterior to posterior) tear is a tear in the top part of the labrum that is closest to the biceps tendon. The labrum helps to keep the shoulder joint stable, and it also helps to attach the biceps muscle to the bone. When the labrum is torn, it can cause pain, weakness, and instability in the shoulder joint. Symptoms of a SLAP tear include:
- Pain when lifting objects overhead or reaching behind the back
- Weakness in the shoulder
- A “popping” or “clicking” sensation in the shoulder
- Decreased range of motion
What is a Slap Repair Procedure?
A slap repair procedure is a surgical procedure used to repair the torn labrum. The procedure is usually done arthroscopically, which means that a small camera and specialized tools are used to perform the surgery through small incisions in the skin. During the procedure, the surgeon will reattach the torn labrum to the bone using small anchors or sutures. The surgery usually takes about one to two hours to complete.
Recovery from Slap Repair Surgery
Recovery from slap repair surgery usually takes several months. After the surgery, you will need to wear a sling for a period of time to immobilize the shoulder joint and allow the labrum to heal. You may also need to undergo physical therapy to help you regain strength and range of motion in the shoulder. Most people can return to their normal activities within four to six months after the surgery.
Conclusion
If you are experiencing symptoms of a SLAP tear, make an appointment with your doctor to discuss your options. A slap repair procedure may be recommended if conservative treatments such as rest, physical therapy, or anti-inflammatory medications are not effective. While the recovery from slap repair surgery can be lengthy, most people are able to return to their normal activities with renewed shoulder strength and stability.