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.

Request An Appointment

    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.

    SLAP Repair Surgery

    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

    From appointment scheduling, receptionist, nurse, xray to Dr. Barrett Brown, all friendly and professional. Thank God that Dr. Brown wants to try physical therapy instead of jumping to surgery. I am well pleased!!
    Shelia Briggs

    Shelia Briggs

    Dr Brown was very professional and explained everything. He helped me with decisions of my care. Highly recommend him.
    Cathy Arroyo

    Cathy Arroyo

    I had the best experience with Doctor Brown and staff They are so Thorough and nice. He did amazing job on my shoulder I would recommend him And his staff any day thank you so much Doctor Brown.
    Karen Larocca

    Karen Larocca

    Dr. Barrett Brown is a very fine physician. He is also a friend. While he is a surgeon he said this about my horribly painful shoulder. First we will try an injection performed by our specialist using ultra sound. (It was painless.) If that does not relieve your pain we will do a cat scan to evaluate the rotator cuff.
    Lynn Russell

    Lynn Russell

    Highly recommend Dr Brown!!! He took time to answer all questions without rushing. I called his office in severe pain and received the in- office MRI and Dr appt the next day then Dr Brown explained my condition and I was booked for surgery with their on-site hospital days later. The surgery went great and I was treated great by all staff. They have valet service as well. Thanks Dr Brown and all staff!!!
    Kimberley Gomez

    Kimberley Gomez

    I had the best experience with Doctor Brown and staff They are so Thorough and nice. He did amazing job on my shoulder I would recommend him And his staff any day thank you so much Doctor Brown.
    Karen Larocca

    Karen Larocca

    I had a rotator cuff repair with Dr. Brown. Everyone at this hospital from the registration staff, pre-op nurse, surgery staff, recovery room nurse, the anesthesiologist, and of course, the surgeon, Dr. Brown were all professional and caring.
    Mary Isern

    Mary Isern

    I have, unfortunately, been a frequent visitor to the Fondren Orthopedic clinic as I cannot seem to stay on my feet 😅. My most recent experience with Dr. Brown has been nothing short of excellent. From the initial exam to surgery and then the follow up and discussion of how I am healing have been extremely thorough and communication has been a 10. I would definitely recommend.
    Jenna Hunter

    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.