What is SLAP Tear Surgery?

SLAP (Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior) Tear Surgery is a surgical procedure designed to repair a specific type of shoulder injury where the labrum, a fibrocartilaginous structure in the shoulder joint, is torn. SLAP tears often occur due to repetitive overhead activities or trauma, resulting in shoulder pain, instability, and a limited range of motion. SLAP Tear Surgery in Bangalore aims to restore shoulder function and alleviate symptoms, allowing patients to return to their normal activities.

When is SLAP Tear Surgery Necessary?

Surgery is typically recommended for individuals who experience:

Persistent shoulder pain that does not improve with conservative treatments, such as physical therapy, medication, or injections.
Significant instability or catching sensations in the shoulder joint.
Decreased range of motion that affects daily activities or athletic performance.

Consulting with a qualified Orthopedic Surgeon is essential to evaluate the severity of the SLAP tear and determine if SLAP Tear Surgery in Bangalore is the best course of action.

Symptoms of SLAP Tears

Patients with a SLAP tear may experience the following symptoms:

Shoulder Pain: Often a deep, aching pain in the shoulder, which can worsen with overhead activities.
Clicking or Popping Sounds: A noticeable popping or clicking sensation during shoulder movement.
Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty in lifting the arm, especially in overhead positions.
Weakness: Decreased strength when performing activities involving the shoulder.
Instability: A feeling that the shoulder may “give way” or become dislocated.

Causes of SLAP Tears

SLAP tears can occur due to various reasons, including:

Acute Injuries: Sudden trauma from falls or direct impacts to the shoulder.
Repetitive Overhead Movements: Common in athletes (e.g., baseball players, swimmers) or individuals with jobs requiring overhead lifting.
Degenerative Changes: Age-related wear and tear, leading to labrum deterioration over time.

Diagnosis

To accurately diagnose a SLAP tear, an Orthopedic Surgeon may perform:

Physical Examination: Assessing shoulder strength, stability, and pain response.
Imaging Tests: MRI scans to visualize the labrum and assess the extent of the tear

The SLAP Tear Surgery Procedure

SLAP Tear Surgery generally involves the following steps:

Anesthesia: Patients receive either general anesthesia or regional anesthesia to ensure comfort during the procedure.
Incision: The surgeon makes small incisions around the shoulder to minimize tissue damage.
Arthroscopy: An arthroscope (a small camera) is inserted into the shoulder joint, allowing the surgeon to visualize the tear and surrounding structures.
Repair: The torn labrum is either stitched back to the bone or anchored using small screws or anchors, depending on the tear’s nature and location.
Closure: The incisions are closed, and a sterile dressing is applied.

Recovery After SLAP Tear Surgery

Recovery from SLAP Tear Surgery in Bangalore involves several phases:

Initial Recovery: Patients may experience swelling and discomfort post-surgery, manageable with ice, elevation, and prescribed pain medications.
Physical Therapy: A personalized rehabilitation program begins shortly after surgery to regain strength, range of motion, and stability in the shoulder joints.
Return to Activities: Many patients can gradually return to light activities within a few weeks, while a full return to sports may take a few months, depending on individual healing and adherence to rehabilitation guidelines.

Risks and Complications of SLAP Tear Surgery

While SLAP tear surgery is generally safe, potential risks include:

Infection at the surgical site.
Stiffness or persistent shoulder pain.
Re-tearing of the labrum or failure of the surgical repair.

Consulting with an experienced Joint Replacement Surgeon or Orthopedic Surgeon is crucial to minimize risks and ensure optimal surgical outcomes.

Why Choose SLAP Tear Surgery in Bangalore?

Bangalore is recognized for its advanced healthcare facilities and specialized orthopedic surgeons adept in treating shoulder injuries. Patients opting for SLAP Tear Surgery in Bangalore benefit from advance techniques and comprehensive care. Surgeons like Dr. Sandeep Subbaiah offer personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs, promoting faster recovery and a return to an active lifestyle.