A superior labrum anterior to posterior (SLAP) lesion tear is an injury to the labrum of the shoulder, which is the ring of cartilage that surrounds the socket of the shoulder joint that helps stabilize it. A SLAP lesion tear occurs both in front (anterior) and back (posterior) of this attachment point. The biceps tendon can be involved in the injury, as well.
Symptoms of this injury can resemble many other shoulder issues:
Conservative treatments such as rest, ice, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) medication, and physical therapy can be effective. If these non-surgical treatment options do not improve pain, surgical treatment may be required. Commonly, this injury is repaired with arthroscopic surgery, which is when your orthopedic surgeon will insert a tiny camera and surgical instruments into your shoulder to repair it.
