A SLAP tear causes deep shoulder pain and catching, especially in throwing athletes and crossfitters. Learn about labral repairs and biceps tenodesis.
Lecturer & Consultant of Orthopedic Surgery (Faculty of Medicine) | Specialist in Knee & Shoulder Surgery
A SLAP (Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior) tear is a specific injury to the top ring of cartilage (labrum) in the shoulder socket, exactly where the biceps tendon attaches. It is common in throwing athletes, CrossFitters, and from falls onto an outstretched arm.
If extensive physical therapy fails to relieve symptoms, Dr. Mohamed Labib utilizes high-definition shoulder arthroscopy to address the tear. Depending on the patient's age and the type of SLAP lesion, surgery involves:
Reattaching the torn labrum to the bone using bio-composite suture anchors. Best suited for young athletes under 30 with healthy biceps tendon tissue.
For patients over 35, repairing the labrum directly has a high failure rate. The inflamed biceps tendon is released from the torn labrum and securely reattached directly to the humerus bone. This provides reliable pain relief and faster recovery.
Book a consultation with Dr. Labib and get a professional assessment at JointCure Clinic, New Cairo.
The shoulder is immobilized in a sling for 4 to 6 weeks. Full return to overhead sports or heavy lifting typically takes 4 to 6 months of dedicated therapy.
Often no. A specialized Magnetic Resonance Arthrogram (MRA), where dye is injected into the shoulder joint before the scan, is the gold standard for diagnosing labral tears.
Book your consultation with Dr. Mohamed Labib today and get a professional medical assessment for your condition at our New Cairo clinic.
