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Additional Discussion:
This study was performed using IV injection of approximately 15mg of gadolinium chelate. Direct intraarticular injection of gadolinium chelate is another useful technique.

Discussion Author: John J. Combs

SLAP stands for Superior Labrum from Anterior-to-Posterior, (relative to the biceps tendon anchor).

There are four types of SLAP tears. In type I lesions consist of a frayed and degenerative superior labrum with a normal biceps tendon anchor. Type II lesions demonstrate detachment of the superior labrum and biceps anchor and may also be associated with anterior glenohumeral joint dislocation and anterior instability. SLAP types I and II may be difficult to separate on MRI, depending on the technique used for diagnosis. Type III lesions involve a bucket-handle tear of the superior labrum (a vertical tear through a meniscoid-like superior labrum) without extension into the biceps tendon. The biceps anchor is stable and the remaining labrum is intact. Type IV lesions also involve a bucket-handle tear associated with a meniscoid-type superior labrum, but in this case with extension into the biceps tendon. The biceps anchor and the superior labrum are well attached. A partially torn biceps tendon may displace the superior labral flap into the joint. A complex SLAP lesion may consist of a combination of two or more types, usually type II and type IV.

Possible mechanisms of injury include a fall on the outstretched abducted arm with associated superior joint compression and a proximal subluxation force or a sudden contraction of the biceps tendon, which avulses the superior labrum. Repetitive stress acting through the biceps tendon or instability of the glenohumeral joint may also produce SLAP lesions.

Treatment of SLAP lesions is based on the type of labral lesion present. A type I SLAP lesion is treated with arthroscopic debridement of the degenerative labrum. Treatment of a type II SLAP lesion (which involves detachment of the superior labrum and biceps anchor) addresses the avulsed labrum and reattachment of the detached biceps anchor to the superior glenoid. A suture anchor technique, for example, may be used for a type II SLAP tear.

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