SLAP Repair
A SLAP tear affects the labrum where the biceps tendon attaches. Repair is arthroscopic and reserved for patients whose symptoms and age genuinely fit the lesion.
3D Animation (1:06)Watch how a SLAP repair is performed
Watch. Understand. Feel Confident.
1:00Arthroscopic SLAP Technique (Real Footage)
For medical professionals: the surgical technique of a SLAP repair, step by step.
For Medical Professionals
1:14Recovery After SLAP Repair
Protecting the repair early, and how throwing athletes progress back to sport.
Arthroscopic
Day Care Surgery
45–75 Minutes
Sport FocusedSurgical Steps (Overview)
Lesion Confirmation
The SLAP type and biceps anchor stability are assessed dynamically.
Decision Point
Repair versus biceps tenodesis is decided on age, sport and tissue.
Bed Preparation
The superior glenoid rim is prepared for healing.
Anchor & Suture
The labrum is refixed with anchors without over-constraining it.
Motion Check
Rotation is tested to ensure no loss of throwing motion.
Recovery Timeline (Step by Step)
Week 1–3Sling · Passive motion · Avoid biceps loading
Week 3–6Assisted motion progressing to active · No lifting
Week 6–12Full motion · Cuff and scapular strengthening
Month 3–5Biceps loading · Sport-specific and throwing progression
Month 6–9Return to overhead and throwing sport*Not every SLAP tear needs repair. Many are age-related and better treated with rehabilitation, or with a biceps tenodesis in older patients where repair tends to cause stiffness.
In younger overhead athletes with a genuinely unstable biceps anchor, repair restores the labral bumper and relieves the deep, catching pain in the throwing position.
- Deep shoulder pain in the overhead or throwing position
- An unstable type II SLAP lesion on imaging and examination
- Younger, active patients — particularly overhead athletes
- Symptoms persisting after a structured rehabilitation programme
- Careful diagnosisExamination plus MR arthrogram; the decision is not made on MRI alone
- Alternative discussedTenodesis is often the better option over about 35–40 years of age
- Sling arrangedWorn for the first three weeks
- Throwing planOverhead athletes get a staged return-to-throwing programme
SLAP repair is an operation that has to be earned by the diagnosis. Repair the wrong lesion and you create stiffness; repair the right one in a young thrower and you give them their shoulder back.
Questions & Answers
Do all SLAP tears need surgery?
Why might a tenodesis be recommended instead?
When can I throw again?
Will I lose rotation?
Is it done arthroscopically?
What if the pain persists?
Note: This information is for general education only and should not replace a consultation with your doctor.
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