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Glenoid Labral Tears/SLAP Lesions, Sports Medicine

Brian Lowell, MD, CAQSM Reviewed 04/2019
 


BASICS

DESCRIPTION

  • The anatomy of the glenohumeral (GH) joint is complex, and stability is provided from combination of the capsule, tendons, muscles, bones, and the labrum:

    • Labrum acts by increasing su...

DIAGNOSIS

Labral tear diagnosis is made by history, physical, and appropriate imaging. The gold standard for diagnosis of a SLAP lesion is direct visualization via arthroscopy. 

HISTORY

  • Most individuals...

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

  • Ideal treatment of SLAP injuries remains unclear. Current recommendations support an initial nonsurgical approach prior to surgical intervention.

  • Initial therapy (nonoperative...

ONGOING CARE

  • Postoperative care varies among individuals and depends on overall surgical intervention. Therapy is largely patient directed.

  • Example of postoperative therapy are as follows:

    • Sling immobil...

REFERENCES

1
Abrams G, Safran M. Diagnosis and management of superior labrum anterior posterior lesions in overhead athletes. Br J Sports Med.  2010;44(5):311–318.
2
Manske R, Prohaska D. Superior l...

CLINICAL PEARLS

  • Glenoid labral tears are relatively uncommon shoulder injuries but are more commonly seen in overhead athletes and those who participate in contact sports.

  • Labral injuries typically cau...

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