SLAP TEAR,BICEPS TEAR SURGERY IN GURGAON: TREATMENTS, RECOVERY AND COST

Shoulder pain can be exhausting, especially when a person is unable to perform simple tasks such as raising their arm, experiences discomfort while exercising, or cannot sleep on the affected shoulder without experiencing sharp pain. These limitations can significantly impact a person’s quality of life.

Sometimes the culprit can be a SLAP tear or biceps tendon tear. While some respond well to medication and physiotherapy, others may need surgery.

If you are experiencing shoulder pain and want to know what your options are, knowing the basics is the first step to getting better.

In this blog by Dr. Chirag Arora, best orthopedic doctor in Gurgaon, we will discuss the nature of SLAP tears and biceps tears, the diagnostic procedure as well as the surgery, rehabilitation process and the cost of care in Gurgaon.

What Is A SLAP Tear?

The shoulder has a ring of cartilage that covers and protects the shallow socket of the shoulder. This is known as the labrum.

When there is damage to the superior part of the labrum of the shoulder joint, it is referred to as a SLAP (Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior) tear. The long head of the biceps tendon inserts into the top of the labrum.

A SLAP tear can be caused by:

• Fall on an outstretched hand
• Overhead activity (especially weightlifting, swimming and throwing)
• Sudden pull on the arm
• Natural wear and tear
• Sports related shoulder dislocation

However, for every SLAP tear, surgery is not the only option. The type of tear, the age, activity level and overall health of the patient will influence the type of treatment.

What Is A Biceps Tendon Tear?

Tendons are thick cords that join the muscles to the bones. A biceps tendon tear affects the long head of the biceps muscle in the upper arm.

The biceps brachii is a muscle on the front of the upper arm. It helps in flexing the elbow and rotating the forearm.

Injuries to the biceps tendon can cause a dull ache at the front of the shoulder, pain or discomfort while lifting or carrying an object, pain while doing overhead activities and a popping or snapping feeling. Bruising and swelling around the shoulder may develop soon after the injury. There may also be a visible difference in the contour of the biceps muscle in the affected arm in the case of a complete tear.

Diagnosis of SLAP Tears And Biceps Tears 

The diagnosis can help determine if conservative treatment or surgical intervention is the most suitable approach.

Your orthopedic will:

• Do a physical exam to evaluate the range of motion, instability and identify tender points in the shoulder.
• Take a detailed history of the incident or events that might have led to the injury.
• Also take into account your lifestyle and sport and the exact movement that provokes the pain.
• Request diagnostic imaging like X-rays, and an MRI or MR arthrogram.

The results of these tests are evaluated in conjunction with the patient’s specific complaint and physical examination. A torn labrum that is seen on imaging does not always mean that that is the cause of pain.

Treatment Options For SLAP And Biceps Tears

The treatment options will be decided based on the severity of the injury, age of the patient, activity level and the response to conservative treatment.

The treatment plan may include:

• Rest or restriction of activity that aggravates the shoulder
• Medications (NSAIDs) when needed
• Physiotherapy’
• A structured physiotherapy rehabilitation plan can facilitate the return to sport and normal activities.
• If the symptoms persist despite conservative treatment, it may be necessary to consider surgery.

Arthroscopic SLAP Tear Surgery

Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure done by making small incisions in the skin and inserting a camera and specialised surgical instruments into the joint.

Based on the nature of the tear, the surgeon may recommend:

• SLAP repair: The torn labrum is reattached to the edge of the socket using special anchors.
• Biceps tenodesis: The long head of the biceps is detached from the shoulder joint and reattached to the upper arm bone.
• Biceps tenotomy: The long head of the biceps tendon is released. However, this is not always an option.

The decision regarding the procedure will be individualised, based on the nature of the tear and the surgeon’s discussion with the patient. 

Recovery After SLAP Tear And Biceps Tear Surgery

The rehabilitation process after surgery can be long and often requires the patient to be committed to a structured physiotherapy programme. Although the extent and duration of rehabilitation varies according to the procedure performed and severity of the injury, there are some general guidelines to follow.

• The early recovery phase: A sling is worn for the first few weeks to protect the shoulder. Pain and incision site care are prioritised.
• Physiotherapy: The physiotherapy programme will begin soon after the surgery and involve a series of progressive mobilisations and strengthening exercises.
• Returning to daily activity: As the patient regains mobility and strength, they can slowly return to their day-to-day activities. Heavy lifting or strenuous activity may be restricted for a longer period.
• Resuming sports: Depending on the nature of the sport and the procedure performed, a rehabilitation programme that involves strengthening and functional training may be recommended before returning to overhead activities like swimming, throwing or weightlifting.

The return to play after a SLAP repair or biceps tenodesis can take months. The physio and surgeon will advise on when the patient can resume activity gradually based on their progress.

Avoid rushing into activities and overexertion even if the shoulder feels better. 

SLAP Tear, Biceps Tear Surgery Cost in Gurgaon

The cost of SLAP tear and biceps tear surgery in Gurgaon varies on every individual’s case.

Some of the factors that go into the final amount billed are:

• The surgery and the extent of injury
• The charges of the surgeon and hospitals
• Anesthetics and diagnostic tests
• Materials used in the procedure and admission
• Medication and physiotherapy after surgery

With a preliminary consultation and diagnostic tests, the doctor can better understand the condition and suggest treatment and an approximate cost. However, the final amount is determined only after discussing the treatment procedure and the costs.

Conclusion

Diagnose and treat a SLAP tear or biceps injury, a consultation can help you understand the condition and treatment options available.

Dr. Chirag Arora at Fortis Hospital Gurgaon can help you understand your symptoms and diagnostic reports and discuss treatment options, both surgical and non-surgical, to help you resume normal activities without discomfort.

Book a consultation with Dr. Chirag Arora in Gurgaon to discuss your concerns and diagnosis, and determine the course of treatment.

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