Management of Type III SLAP Lesion

SLAP lesions are common in overhead athletes; however, these injuries can often occur with trauma such shoulder impact, superiorly directed force from a fall on outstretched hand and traction injuries. In addition, these injuries are associated with instability and can be found with a variety of labral lesions extending circumferentially about the glenoid. The diagnosis of a type III SLAP lesions is often difficult as symptoms are typically vague. Nonsurgical treatment is normally instituted initially which is comprised of medications with or without intraarticular injections in conjunction with a focused rehabilitation program. When conservative measures fail, surgery is typically indicated. Type III SLAP lesions are typically considered stable and debridement is often successful.