SLAP lesions: current controversies

Knowledge of the pertinent anatomy, pathogenesis, clinical presentation and treatment of the spectrum of injuries involving the superior glenoid labrum and biceps origin is required in treating the patient with a superior labrum anterior and posterior (SLAP) tear. Despite the plethora of literature regarding SLAP lesions, their clinical diagnosis remains challenging for a number of reasons. First, the diagnostic value of many of the available physical examination tests is inconsistent and ambiguous. Second, SLAP lesions most commonly occur concomitantly with other shoulder injuries. Third, SLAP lesions have no specific associated pain pattern. Outcomes following surgical treatment of SLAP tears vary depending on the method of treatment, associated pathology and patient characteristics. Biceps tenodesis has been receiving increasing attention as a possible treatment for SLAP tears. Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2019;4:25-32. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.4.180033.