SLAP Repair Surgery In Houston, TX
If you’re experiencing severe shoulder pain, you might need SLAP surgery. This procedure is often necessary when other treatments like physical therapy don’t work, especially if you have a serious shoulder tear. Our orthopedic surgeon and his team at Barrett S. Brown, MD, are experts in SLAP repair surgery in Houston, TX. We can help you get better faster. Call us today to learn more and schedule an appointment. Remember, the sooner you get treatment, the better your results will be.
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What is a SLAP Tear
A SLAP tear (Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior tear) is an injury to the shoulder joint. It happens when the cartilage around the shoulder socket (called the labrum) and sometimes the biceps tendon gets damaged. This injury often occurs from repeated use of the shoulder, like throwing a ball or falling on your shoulder.
What is a SLAP Repair
A SLAP tear is treated with a minimally invasive procedure called SLAP repair.
Dr. Brown at our Houston clinic specializes in SLAP repair surgery, utilizing arthroscopy to repair the damaged part of your shoulder precisely.
Questions About SLAP Repair Surgery?
Indications for a SLAP Repair
SLAP repair surgery is often needed when other treatments like pain medicine and physical therapy don’t work for shoulder pain or weakness caused by a SLAP tear.
How is a SLAP Repair Surgery Performed in Houston
SLAP repair surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small camera called an arthroscope to see inside your shoulder joint. The type of surgery depends on the severity of your SLAP tear. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and a nerve block.
During the surgery, our highly experienced surgeon, Dr. Brown, will make small cuts in your shoulder to insert the arthroscope and other tools. He will then identify the type of SLAP tear and remove the damaged tissue.
Next, our surgeon will drill a small hole in the bone near the tear. He will then insert an anchor with a strong suture into the hole. If needed, he may insert additional anchors to secure the torn labrum.
Finally, our surgeon will tie the torn labrum to the bone with the sutures.
Benefits of SLAP Repair
SLAP repair surgery helps restore the shoulder joint’s normal structure and function. By reattaching the torn labrum, the surgery allows the shoulder to move properly again and helps the biceps tendon work correctly.
What are the Steps Recommended for Postoperative Care Following SLAP Repair
You can usually go home on the day of your surgery. Take pain medicine regularly for the first few days, especially after the nerve block wears off.
You’ll need to wear a sling for 6 weeks. After 6 weeks, you can start moving your shoulder more and building strength. All restrictions should be lifted by 6 months.
You can remove the bulky bandages on day 2, but keep your wounds dry and covered with waterproof dressings for 12 days. You can shower after 4 days with waterproof dressings on.
Everyone’s recovery is different, but in general, you can expect to:
- Return to office work in about 2 weeks (while wearing a sling).
- Do light physical work after 12 weeks.
- Do heavier work in 5-6 months.
- Resume contact or overhead sports in about 6 months.
- Start driving again in about 8 weeks when you feel confident and safe.
What Our Patients Are Saying
Shelia Briggs
Cathy Arroyo
Karen Larocca
Lynn Russell
Kimberley Gomez
Karen Larocca
Mary Isern
Jenna Hunter
Potential Risks and Complications of SLAP Repair Surgery
Like any surgery, SLAP repair has some risks. These risks are usually minor and easy to treat. Possible problems with arthroscopic surgery include:
- Infection.
- Excessive bleeding.
- Blood clots.
- Shoulder stiffness.
- Damage to blood vessels or nerves.
Dr. Brown will discuss these risks with you before your surgery.
Don’t Let Shoulder Pain Disrupt Your Everyday Activities!
Call our office today at (346) 247-2531 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Brown. He can help you find relief from shoulder pain that’s affecting your daily life.


