Specific physical examination of SLAP tears is difficult as they typically present with other pathology in the shoulder. A standard detailed history is required, as with all patients presenting to the clinic. Determining the onset of symptoms and mechanism (trauma, dislocation, or exacerbating maneuvers with overhead activity) can clue an examiner into labral pathology. Some SLAP tears present in the degenerative setting with no definitive onset of symptoms or discrete mechanisms. In these situations, evaluating the patient’s history of repetitive overhead activity or general functional history will help isolate suspicion towards the superior labrum.

It is important to discuss the patients’ activities such as athletics, profession, and baseline activity level. Ascertaining patients’ goals is also paramount as post-intervention physical demands and expectations of a high-level athlete are likely different than the aging population. Patients often complain of vague, deep shoulder pain and mechanical clicking with exacerbating activities. They may complain of night pain, which is a common complaint with several shoulder pathologies. SLAP tear patients typically admit to resolution or reduction of symptoms at rest.

Initial physical examination includes visual inspection for gross asymmetry and muscle atrophy. The skin should also be evaluated for prior surgical incisions or injuries attributed to an acute mechanism. A detailed neurovascular examination is performed and documented, complete with muscle strength testing. Active and passive motion needs to be assessed and compared to the contralateral side. Specific attention should be paid to scapulothoracic motion, as altered mechanics of the global shoulder complex can be the result of or a contributing factor to SLAP tears. As several types of SLAP tears can also be associated with instability, the general stability of the shoulder should be evaluated. The possibility of generalized hyperlaxity of tissues in all patients with instability should also be considered, and a Beighton score can easily be obtained.

There is no gold standard physical exam test that specifically identifies SLAP tears. Multiple exam maneuvers point to either labral involvement via impingement or compression mechanisms. Some tests isolate the tension placed on the superior labrum by the biceps via provocative maneuvers in active and passive forms. Additionally, specific biceps testing can be used; however, they are not reliable for SLAP tears as they can be positive with other pathologies. Below is a list of tests used to evaluate the labrum and the biceps.[9][10][11][12] While the O’Brien test (active compression) originally reported 100% sensitive and 99% specific results, several studies have stated lower rates.[10][13][14] Multiple tests of the shoulder should be used to gain information collectively towards suspicion for labral pathology.

Biceps Tests

• Speed’s
• Uppercut
• Yergason’s
• Bicipital groove tenderness

Labral Tests

• Anterior slide
• Biceps load I and II
• Crank
• Forced shoulder abduction and elbow flexion
• Jobes relocation
• Labral tension
• Mimori pain provocation
• Dynamic labral shear (O’Driscoll’s)
• O’Brien (active compression)
• Pronated load
• Resisted supination external rotation

Initial evaluation of the shoulder typically starts with x-rays to rule out osseous pathology. In the chronic setting, degenerative changes within the shoulder may be present, and while testing of the superior labrum may be positive, it may not be the main cause of their symptoms. Typically, an MR arthrogram (MRA) is performed to evaluate the shoulder labrum. SLAP tear type is determined by the anatomical location of the tear as well as the severity of its extension. A paralabral cyst found on MRI is a diagnostic clue for a SLAP tear. Suprascapular nerve compression from a paralabral cyst may occur. Depending on location, it can lead to combined supraspinatus and infraspinatus weakness (suprascapular notch) or isolated infraspinatus atrophy (spinoglenoid notch).[15][16] 

While MRA has a sensitivity and specificity of 82% to 100% and 71% to 98% respectively, there are normal anatomic variants which can be confused with a SLAP tear. A sublabral recess or foramen can be misread as a labral tear. These are identified by smooth rather than rough edges, specific anatomic locations, and orientation medially rather than into the lateral substance of the labrum.[17] Anatomical variations such as a Buford complex, a thickened middle glenohumeral ligament (MGHL) and absent anterosuperior labrum, may be confused with a SLAP tear as well. A sulcus between the supraglenoid tubercle and the labrum may also give a false-positive result and is deemed a pseudo SLAP tear.

Snyder et al. first described the classification of SLAP tears in 1990. Additional subtypes for type II tears, as well as additional tear patterns, were described in subsequent years.[2][9][6][12]

• Type I – Fraying of the superior labrum with intact biceps anchor
• Type II – Fraying of the superior labrum with detached biceps anchor
  • A) anterior
  • B) posterior
  • C) combined anterior and posterior
• Type III – Bucket handle tear of the superior labrum with intact biceps anchor
• Type IV – Bucket handle tear of the superior labrum with detached biceps anchor (remains attached to the torn labrum)
• Type V – Type II + Bankart lesion
• Type VI – Type II + unstable flap either anteriorly or posteriorly
• Type VII – Type II + anterior extension inferior to the MGHL
• Type VIII – Type II + posterior labrum extension
• Type IX – Circumferential labrum tear
• Type X – Type II + reverse Bankart lesion

Non-operative management focuses on the initial restriction of provoking maneuvers. Typically, an anti-inflammatory and/or corticosteroid injection are utilized as initial treatment as well. Gentle ROM activities are recommended. Glenohumeral internal rotation deficit (GIRD) is a common associated finding in throwing athletes. Focus on stretching the posterior capsule is also a focus of rehabilitation. As symptoms diminish, a structured rehabilitation protocol focusing on rotator cuff and pericapsular strengthening exercises are utilized.[18]

Operative management varies widely depending on patient activity level and treatment goals. Additionally, classification and severity of the SLAP tear, in combination with concomitant pathology, affects the type of operative management selected. Trends in the early 2000s showed an increase in SLAP repairs.[19][20][4] Subsequently, as understanding of the injury continued to unfold, rates of repair have steadily declined.[19][21] The recent overlying trend appears to favor tenodesis rather than repair; however, the decision for the type of intervention remains patient-specific.[19]

Type I and III SLAP tears may be selected to undergo simple debridement as the integrity of the biceps anchor is not completely compromised. Unstable SLAP lesions are typically repaired with anchor fixation, and the extent of the injury typically determines the pattern of repair. The ultimate goal of fixation for all repair techniques is to provide a robust and stable fixation, promoting the stability of the glenohumeral joint and allowing for adequate rehabilitation without failure of repair.[9]

Alternatively, the biceps anchor may be sacrificed, and a biceps tenotomy or tenodesis performed. Tenodesis can be performed by subpectoral, all-arthroscopic, and mini-open techniques. While elite athletes and young patients typically undergo repair, these techniques provide satisfactory results for a wide variety of patients.[22] Tenotomy can lead to a cosmetic deformity with retraction of the biceps muscle. The resulting tear of the labrum can then be debrided or fixed depending upon the severity of the tear.

Management of paralabral cysts is dependent upon location and concomitant symptomatic nerve compression. In the absence of compressive symptoms, a range of non-operative treatments can be considered, including observation, anti-inflammatories, or percutaneous aspiration.[16] For those with atrophy, weakness, or continued pain, surgical decompression is indicated. Care must be taken to avoid iatrogenic nerve injury during decompression.[15][16]

• Biceps tendonitis
• Internal impingement
•  Glenohumeral internal rotation deficit
• Other labral pathology and/or instability
• Rotator cuff tears
• Scapular dyskinesis

Nonoperative management has efficacy for many symptomatic SLAP tears and should be considered for initial treatment. Previous studies have demonstrated non-operative management successful for 22% to 85% of patients.[18][23]

Operative intervention in adults has been reported to be successful between 80 and 97% of patients in several populations.[24][25] Several of these studies, however, are heterogeneous and successful treatment is a matter of definition. Alleviation of pain and return of range of motion may result in treatment success for some; however, in overhead athletes, many patients are unable to return to their prior level of sport or performance. Results are widely varied in these athletes, demonstrating the return to the prior level of sport between 7% and 84%.[23][26][27][28][29][30]  Non-overhead athletes return to sport at a consistently higher rate, although some patients inevitably are unable to return to participation. Additionally, adolescents also demonstrated successful outcomes with operative repair in regards to pain and function; however, there remain similar considerations regarding return to sport.[24] As patients age, typically beyond 40 years of age, repair becomes consistently inferior to tenodesis or tenotomy. Several authors recommend against repair in these populations.[23][31]

Ultimately, nonoperative and operative management yields successful results for many patients; however, treatment success is highly dependent upon patient functional level and treatment goals. An honest dialogue of outcomes with each patient is vital before selecting the appropriate intervention.

Treatment failure and complications are dependent upon intervention, patient adherence to rehabilitation protocols, and patient-specific factors. Increasing age, activity level, obesity, female sex, smoking, and concomitant shoulder pathology are risk factors for failure.[23][27] The most common complications after surgical fixation are residual pain and stiffness.[25][32] Additionally, infection, failure of repair, residual pain, neurovascular injury, and recurrent instability may occur.

Rehabilitation after surgery is dependent upon several factors. Mechanism of initial injury should be considered to avoid repeating the maneuvers and stressing the repair. For debridement procedures and stable SLAP patterns, passive and active range of motion exercises begin within the first week of surgery. Care must be taken to avoid exercises activating the biceps. Gradually, active strengthening and improvement of neuromuscular control is undertaken from two to four weeks. As pain recedes and range of motion is returned, dynamic strengthening exercises and sport-specific protocols are initiated. As function is restored without pain, a gradual return to sport is recommended on a case by case basis dependent upon clinical exam.

In SLAP repairs with unstable patterns, a more gradual approach is taken. A sling with an abduction pillow is typically utilized with avoidance of external rotation and abduction. Gentle passive and limited active range of motion exercises is recommended for the first four weeks. At four weeks, progressive range of motion exercises are continued, however active external rotation and abduction are still avoided. By weeks five to six, strengthening exercises are started and active external rotation and abduction motions are allowed. Active strengthening of the biceps is still avoided. A structured advancement of strengthening sports specific rehabilitation and dynamic exercises are continued for several months. By six to nine months, a gradual return to sport is undertaken dependent upon the painless progression of activity and clinical exam.[9]

Post-operative rehab for tenotomy and tenodesis of the biceps is typically included within the above protocols. Isolated tenotomy patients typically can resume activity within a week. Tenodesis patients are protected for four weeks, and avoidance of supination and flexion of the elbow is recommended. Strengthening exercises can be initiated at six weeks postoperatively.[33]

Discussing the anatomic role exacerbating mechanisms have on either non-operative, or operative management can help give understanding as to the importance of avoiding those maneuvers. Discussing the goals of the patient is also critical as the recovery time between various procedures is vastly different. Understanding the rigorous rehabilitation required from advanced procedures helps the patient understand what is to be expected on their road to recovery.

To reduce the risk of injury, especially in overhead athletes, there should be a focus on flexibility, periscapular, and shoulder girdle strengthening as well as proper mechanics. This can help avoid stressing the dynamic and static stabilizers of the shoulder in hopes of limiting stress at the glenoid-labrum interface.

A multifaceted approach to treatment is required for successful outcomes. As demonstrated above, a dedicated focus on rehabilitation in nonoperative and postoperative patients is vital. A structured rehabilitation program and open communication between the interprofessional team are important to ensure a step-wise approach is followed to achieve maximum patient satisfaction and function.