Superior Labral Tear (SLAP Lesion)
Andreas Leonidou
Orthopaedic Surgeon
56 Kifisias Ave. & Delfon St.,
Marousi, 15125
- Symptoms
- Conservative Treatment
- Surgical Treatment
- Cost
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What Is the Superior Labrum?
The labrum is connective tissue that surrounds the glenoid (the socket portion of the shoulder) in order to increase shoulder stability. The tendon of the long head of the biceps brachii attaches to the superior part of the labrum.
Superior Labral Tear (SLAP Lesion)
A SLAP lesion involves traumatic detachment of the superior part of the labrum from the glenoid. The injury occurs following trauma or in athletes who perform repetitive movements above shoulder level (such as weightlifters, throwing athletes, and volleyball players).
Diagnosis
A patient with a SLAP lesion requires assessment by a specialist Orthopaedic Surgeon. Dr Leonidou will take a detailed medical history and examine you. The doctor will perform an ultrasound scan of the shoulder to assess the integrity of the tendons and the presence of fluid. For a definitive diagnosis, an MRI scan with intra-articular contrast injection (also known as an MR arthrogram) will be required.
Conservative Treatment of a SLAP Lesion
Conservative treatment is appropriate for older patients and those with lower demands in relation to manual work or sports.
Surgical Treatment
Shoulder arthroscopy offers a definitive solution with excellent functional outcomes. Shoulder arthroscopy involves 3 incisions, each 4 millimetres long. Through these incisions, a camera with cold light and the necessary instruments are inserted into the shoulder. Exclusively by Dr Leonidou’s team, patients are offered the option of undergoing shoulder arthroscopy without general anaesthesia and without sedation. The specialist anaesthesiologist will administer regional anaesthesia, and the patient will remain awake during the procedure. During the operation, the labral tear is repaired. When indicated, the tendon of the long head of the biceps is fixed in a new position so that it no longer causes pain (tenodesis). At the same time, any other existing shoulder conditions are also treated (such as a tendon tear).
How Successful Is Surgery for a SLAP Lesion?
Arthroscopic treatment of a SLAP lesion is a safe and bloodless procedure with extremely low complication rates and excellent functional outcomes. The patient is discharged from the hospital a few hours after the operation, wearing a sling for a few weeks. With the support of physiotherapy, the patient returns to daily activities within a few days and can safely return to sports within 3 months.
What is the cost of surgery?
The cost is quite affordable. For more information, please contact us.
If you have biceps tendinitis, consult the specialist Orthopaedic Surgeon Dr Andreas Leonidou. The doctor has 14 years of continuous experience abroad and specialises in shoulder conditions.
Book your appointment for immediate diagnosis, specialist care, and targeted treatment in just one visit.