Arthroscopic stabilization of type II SLAP lesions using an absorbable tack.
OBJECTIVE
To document the outcomes of arthroscopic stabilization of Snyder type II SLAP (superior labrum, anterior and posterior) lesions, using a bioabsorbable tack.


METHODS
A case series.


METHODS
Twenty-five SLAP lesions were repaired arthroscopically using a bioabsorbable tack. There were 22 recreational, 2 high school, and 1 professional athlete in this group. Shoulder function was surveyed at a mean follow-up of 35 months (range, 24 to 51 months) using the UCLA and ASES shoulder scoring algorithms.


RESULTS
Shoulder function improved in 24 of the 25 cases. Follow-up UCLA scores averaged 32 points with 9 patients scoring as excellent, 13 good, 2 fair, and 1 poor, for an overall success rate of 88%. ASES shoulder scores similarly improved from a preoperative average of 45 points to a postoperative average of 92. All but 2 of the athletes had returned to their preinjury level of sports participation.


CONCLUSIONS
Detachment of the superior labrum from the glenoid is recognized as a problematic injury in throwing athletes and others who engage in repetitive overhead activities. We conclude from our experience that using an absorbable tack to repair type II SLAP lesions is an effective treatment, even in athletes with high demands and expectations for shoulder function.
Samani
J E
JE
Minneapolis Sports Medicine Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA.
Marston
S B
SB
Buss
D D
DD
D020341:Absorbable Implants; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000465:Algorithms; D001182:Arthroscopy; D001265:Athletic Injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D001863:Bone Screws; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D005538:Football / Q000293:injuries; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D000070599:Shoulder Injuries; D012785:Shoulder Joint / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014949:Wounds, Nonpenetrating / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000601:surgery*