SLAP Injury and the Superior Labrum

Jain, Abhishek MBBS, MRCS, DMRD, FRCR, DipSEM
Aniq, Hifz MBBS, FRCR
Mistry, Alpesh MBBS, FRCR

¹Liverpool University Hospitals, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom

Address for correspondence Abhishek Jain, MBBS, MRCS, DMRD, FRCR, DipSEM, Liverpool University Hospitals, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Prescot Street, L7 8XP, Liverpool, United Kingdom (e-mail: [email protected]; [email protected]).

Conflict of Interest None declared.

Seminars in Musculoskeletal Radiology 26(5):p 577-584, October 2022. | DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1758840

Abstract

Injuries around the superior labrum are a common cause of shoulder dysfunction and pain. The injuries sustained result mainly from repetitive microtrauma but can also occur following a fall on outstretched hand. Both athletic and general populations can be affected. Injuries to the superior labrum are called superior labrum anterior and posterior (SLAP) tears. Based on cross-sectional imaging findings, the literature defines four main SLAP tears (I-IV) and six extended types (V-X). An accurate description of imaging findings of the SLAP tear type, along with concomitant findings, aids clinicians in treatment planning. We also briefly discuss management options, postoperative appearance of superior labral repair, and the diagnosis of a retear.