Home > Pathologies > Shoulder > Long Head of Biceps Tendon Pathology > SLAP

SLAP

I HAVE AN INJURY

Access to the affected area to learn more about your injury
APPOINTMENT REQUEST

SLAP

WHAT IS IT?

This refers to the English acronyms for the Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior.

The Long Head of Biceps (LHB), as mentioned previously, is inserted and continues with the upper part of the glenoid labrum. When the tendon, and the superior labrum, tear away from the bone area, this is known as a SLAP tear.

There are four types of slap tear:

  • Type I: When there is a "fraying" of the tendon.
  • Type II: When the superior labrum is torn from both the anterior and posterior labrum.
  • Type III: This is associated with the "bucket-handle" tear of the labrum.
  • Type IV: This is associated with the "bucket-handle" tear of the labrum plus a torn biceps.

CAUSES

Although the SLAP tear may be the result of a fall or an accident, sudden repetitive overhead movement (excessive traction of the limb causes the tear from the insertion of the LHB) tends to be the most common cause.

SYMPTOMS

Unspecified. There may be pain or a sensation of catching or popping and at times a sensation of instability when undertaking certain actions and an occasional "dead arm" feeling. 

TREATMENT

Conservative treatment for patients with few symptoms

Surgical treatment for patients with a clear limiting clinical diagnosis. The typical surgical treatment for a SLAP tear tends to be to reinsert the torn or separated labrum using anchors in addition to the application of PRGF®-Endoret® in order to encourage the wound to heal.