Labral tear repair--now another apparent tear

by Rich Hayden
(Okinawa, Chatan, Japan)

I had repair of a SLAP lesion in May....still have some similar pain upon lifting and with certain activities. I am quite active and my surgeon feels that my age (51) is not really conducive to a full labral repair and is recommending a release of the bicep tendon and subsequent tacking (to prevent the "Popeye" effect).....I should add that I am deploying to Afghanistan (carrying a 9mm/M4 carbine) in March time frame and am not sure what to opt for.

I do feel that I would like to have full range and motion and be pain free, but also do not want to risk losing my upcoming deployment and also risk not getting any better....any advice or comments?

Sincerely,
R. Hayden, CDR, MSC, USN
Okinawa, Japan

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Labral tear repair--now another apparent tear

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Nov 19, 2008
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biceps tenodesis
by: Bart - SII

Do you know what type of SLAP lesion you had initially? If there was biceps tendon involvement, then that may be why your surgeon is recommending the biceps tenodesis. Often a SLAP repair that has biceps tendon involvement (Type 3 or 4) can lead to future problems and may best be treated with the release and reattachment of the biceps to the humerus.

This type of procedure should give you full motion and normal strength provided you go through the full rehabilitation process. Recovery is lengthy, with the arm in a sling and restricted from any active use of the biceps for the first 4-6 weeks. 4-6 months for full recovery is the norm, which may put your March timeline close.

Bart