Introduction
What is a labral tear? Is it different from a SLAP tear?
The articulation of the head of the humerus (upper arm bone) into the glenoid socket of the scapula (shoulder blade) forms the glenohumeral joint in the shoulder. The labrum is a densely fibrous cartilage ring that lines the glenoid socket to stabilize the joint while also assisting in joint movement. A shoulder dislocation can damage and weaken this cartilage ring leading to shoulder instability and recurrent dislocations.
The shoulder labrum also provides the attachment sites for the biceps tendon. In the event that the biceps tendon is torn away from its anchoring point, the labrum may also be severed from the glenoid socket. This condition, known as a Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior (SLAP) tear, often results from a blunt force trauma directly to the shoulder.
What is the treatment for a labral or SLAP tear?
Patients with mild labral or SLAP tears are frequently able to resolve any symptoms with conservative treatment measures alone. However, surgical intervention may be required if initial conservative therapies fail or a more severe labral or SLAP tear occurs. Surgical repair of a labral or SLAP tear is minimally invasive and aims to strengthen and restore mobility to the glenohumeral shoulder joint. Dr. Frank McCormick, orthopedic shoulder doctor, treats patients in Orlando, West Palm Beach County, and the surrounding Florida communities, who are in need of a surgical repair of a labral or SLAP tear.
How is a labral or SLAP repair performed?
Dr. McCormick conducts the surgical repair of a labral or SLAP tear as a minimally invasive arthroscopic procedure. Prior to starting, the patient is placed under anesthesia and situated in a beach chair position. When stabilized, small incisions are created surrounding the glenohumeral joint. An arthroscope (small camera) is inserted through a portal and the images of the bones, ligaments, muscles, and tendons are methodically examined. Specialized surgical instruments are then introduced to remove any damaged or frayed portions from the labrum cartilage and prepare the glenoid socket for labrum reattachment. The healthy cartilaginous tissue that remains is fastened back in the proper anatomical configuration with specialized surgical anchors that are secured within the bone. After the necessary revisions have been completed, the arthroscope and surgical instruments are withdrawn and the incisions are closed with sutures or steri-strips.
What is the recovery period like after arthroscopic labral or SLAP repair?
The recovery period after the surgical repair of a labral or SLAP tear is variable as it depends on the injury severity and the complexity of the surgical procedure. While minimally invasive arthroscopic surgical techniques have documented shorter recovery times comparatively, the bones and soft tissues still take the same amount of time to heal. The patient’s willingness to follow post-operative care instructions can also significantly affect the recovery process. In general, the majority of patients can expect a full recovery in approximately 4 to 6 months with another 6 months of continued improvement. Patients in Orlando, Palm Beach County, and the surrounding Florida communities can anticipate the following during recovery:
- The repaired shoulder joint will be immobilized immediately after surgery. This sling or other immobilization device will remain in place for approximately 3 to 6 weeks to protect the joint repairs from further damage.
- Swelling, bruising, and general discomfort are normal during the first 7 to 10 days after surgery. These post-operative symptoms can be managed with ice packs and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs). If necessary, Dr. McCormick can prescribe stronger pain medication to be taken as directed.
- Passive range of motion exercises typically begin within the first 7 days after surgery while active range of motion exercises start after clearance by Dr. McCormick.
- The key to a successful recovery following labral or SLAP repair is the patient’s adherence to the individualized physical rehabilitation program. This physical therapy program is tailored to the patient’s specific injury with the goal of gradually restoring strength and range of motion to the shoulder.
For more information on shoulder labrum and SLAP tear repairs, or to discuss your shoulder labrum treatment options, please contact the office of Frank McCormick, MD, orthopedic shoulder doctor serving Orlando, Kissimmee, Palm Beach County, Florida, and the surrounding areas.
