Lesão SLAP e Patologia do Bíceps

Patients › Shoulder

Superior labral (SLAP) tears and disorders of the long head of biceps — assessment and treatment.

Updated Jun 2026
Ilustração de um lançador de beisebol no meio do arremesso, fazendo careta de dor no ombro do braço de arremesso.
Os problemas de SLAP e do âncora do bíceps frequentemente causam dor profunda no ombro durante o lançamento acima da cabeça e outras atividades acima da cabeça. Kieran Hirpara 4.0

Esta página foi traduzida automaticamente e ainda não foi verificada por um médico. A versão em inglês é a versão oficial.

O que você está sentindo

Você pode sentir dor na parte frontal do ombro. Essa dor frequentemente se localiza profundamente dentro da articulação. Ela também pode irradiar para o braço superior. Muitas pessoas descrevem como uma dor surda que se torna aguda com o movimento. Você pode notar que a dor piora quando levanta o braço acima da cabeça. Alcançar itens em prateleiras altas pode se tornar difícil. Lançar uma bola ou praticar esportes de raquete podem desencadear desconforto agudo.

Seu ombro pode parecer instável ou como se fosse ceder. Alguns pacientes relatam uma sensação de travamento ou bloqueio. Isso ocorre quando o tecido rompido fica preso na articulação. Você pode ouvir um som de clique ou estalo ao mover o braço. Esses sintomas frequentemente imitam outros problemas do ombro. Sua dor pode parecer inflamação do manguito rotador ou instabilidade geral. É comum sentir rigidez, especialmente pela manhã.

As tarefas diárias tornam-se desafiadoras quando você precisa usar ambas as mãos. Alcançar as costas para fechar um sutiã pode ser doloroso. Enfiar a camisa requer uma torção desconfortável que agrava o rompimento. Dormir do lado afetado é frequentemente impossível devido à pressão e à dor. Você pode acordar frequentemente devido ao desconforto.

A dor tipicamente exacerba após a atividade. Ela pode persistir até a noite ou mantê-lo acordado à noite. O repouso geralmente ajuda a reduzir a dor aguda imediata, mas a rigidez retorna com a inatividade. Você pode acabar evitando usar o braço para protegê-lo. Isso pode levar à fraqueza ao longo do tempo.

É importante saber que os testes do exame físico por si só não podem confirmar esse diagnóstico. Seu cirurgião analisará seu histórico e as imagens para entender o que você está sentindo. Se houver calcificação no tendão do bíceps, isso pode estar relacionado a esse rompimento. Compreender seus sintomas específicos ajuda seu cirurgião a escolher o caminho certo para você. Seja você precise de reparo ou de tenodese (relocação do tendão), o objetivo é aliviar essa dor e restaurar a função.

O que está realmente acontecendo

Seu ombro é uma articulação do tipo bola e soquete. O soquete é revestido por um anel de cartilagem chamado lábio. Pense neste anel como uma junta ou amortecedor de choque. Ele mantém a bola centralizada e estável. O tendão do bíceps se insere na parte superior deste anel. Ele atua como uma corda que ajuda a levantar seu braço.

Uma lesão SLAP significa que essa inserção se descolou ou rasgou. A sigla SLAP significa Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior (Lábio Superior Anterior para Posterior). Isso descreve a localização e a direção do rasgo. Ocorre na parte superior do soquete.

Esta lesão pode parecer muitos problemas diferentes. Frequentemente, imita a impingement ou problemas no manguito rotador. Também pode parecer instabilidade do ombro. Isso torna difícil o diagnóstico. Às vezes, é difícil determinar exatamente o que está errado apenas observando seus sintomas.

Quando esse rasgo ocorre, a mecânica do seu ombro muda. A bola pode deslizar demais dentro do soquete. Esse movimento extra coloca mais tensão no tendão do bíceps. Também aumenta a pressão dentro da articulação. Com o tempo, essa carga extra pode desgastar as superfícies articulares.

Seu corpo tenta lidar com essa instabilidade. Seus músculos podem disparar em momentos diferentes do habitual. Por exemplo, um músculo chamado serrátil anterior pode ativar mais cedo. Isso provavelmente é uma estratégia protetora para estabilizar sua escápula e articulação. No entanto, essa mudança no tempo de ativação pode parecer estranha ou fraca.

Essas mudanças explicam sua dor e limitação de movimento. O rasgo interrompe o deslizamento suave da articulação. O tendão do bíceps é puxado ou tensionado durante o movimento. Isso causa dor aguda, especialmente ao levantar ou alcançar acima da cabeça. Também pode causar uma sensação de travamento.

Entender isso ajuda seu cirurgião a escolher o reparo adequado. Para alguns pacientes, reparar o lábio é o melhor. Para outros, mover a inserção do tendão do bíceps (tenodese) funciona melhor. Essa decisão depende da sua idade, nível de atividade e tipo específico de lesão. Seu cirurgião irá orientá-lo para a opção que restaura a estabilidade e reduz a dor.

O que podemos fazer a respeito

Seu cirurgião inicialmente recomendará tratamento não operatório com um protocolo adequado. Essa abordagem proporciona resultados clínicos satisfatórios em pacientes de meia-idade com lesões de SLAP sintomáticas. Você deve considerar esta etapa antes de recomendar o tratamento operatório. O objetivo é reduzir a dor e restaurar o movimento por meio de exercícios direcionados. Um modelo de previsão clínica pode ajudar a prever a falha desse manejo com precisão moderada, com base nos seus sintomas específicos e tratamentos anteriores. No entanto, a decisão de operar não deve ser tomada com base apenas em testes de avaliação clínica. Você também deve considerar seus níveis de dor, o nível de atividade acima da cabeça e como você respondeu ao manejo não operatório anterior.

Se a dor persistir, o manejo médico pode incluir medicamentos para dor ou anti-inflamatórios. Em alguns casos, seu cirurgião pode considerar injeções, como cortisona, ácido hialurônico ou PRP. Essas opções visam reduzir a inflamação e proporcionar alívio temporário. Se for suspeita de tendinite calcificante do cabeçote longo do bíceps braquial em sua origem, pode ser útil considerar a presença de uma lesão de SLAP concomitante e seu manejo. Observe que a alta prevalência de lesões do lábio superior diagnosticadas por ressonância magnética em pacientes de meia-idade com ombros assintomáticos enfatiza a necessidade de apoio do julgamento clínico ao tomar decisões de tratamento. Não confie apenas na imagem; seu cirurgião correlacionará os achados com seus sintomas físicos.

Quando o tratamento conservador atinge seu limite, a cirurgia é considerada. Isso é frequentemente impulsionado pela presença de dor e pelo seu desejo de retornar à atividade. Para pacientes com menos de 30 anos com uma lesão isolada de SLAP sintomática, a tenodese do bíceps subpectoral aberta pode ser uma alternativa confiável à reparação artroscópica. A tenodese primária do bíceps proporciona melhores resultados funcionais em pacientes ativos com menos de 30 anos em comparação com a reparação de SLAP no seguimento mínimo de 2 anos. Também é uma alternativa segura, eficaz e tecnicamente simples à reparação primária de SLAP em pacientes com lesões de SLAP tipo II e IV. Em uma população jovem e ativa, a tenodese do bíceps pode facilitar o retorno mais precoce à atividade em comparação com a reparação. Para reparos de SLAP tipo II falhos, a tenodese do bíceps subpectoral como procedimento de salvamento demonstra resultados melhorados. A decisão é, em última instância, tomada individualmente com o paciente, ponderando as vantagens e desvantagens específicas.

O que esperar

O seu ombro provavelmente ficará melhor após a cirurgia, mas o caminho para a função completa leva tempo. A maioria dos pacientes observa uma redução significativa da dor e uma melhora clara no funcionamento do ombro. Pode esperar que o seu cirurgião discuta se a tenodese do bíceps ou a reparação SLAP é a escolha adequada para si. Esta decisão depende da sua idade, nível de atividade e da natureza específica da lesão.

Para pacientes ativos com menos de 30 anos, a tenodese do bíceps frequentemente proporciona melhores resultados funcionais do que a reparação SLAP. Neste procedimento, o seu cirurgião move o tendão do bíceps para um novo local no osso do braço superior. Esta abordagem é segura, eficaz e previsível. É também uma opção fiável se já tiver tido uma reparação SLAP prévia que não cicatrizou adequadamente. Mesmo que a sua cirurgia inicial tenha falhado, esta correção pode restaurar a função e reduzir a dor.

Se for um atleta competitivo de movimentos acima da cabeça, o seu prognóstico é geralmente positivo. Cerca de 81% dos pacientes regressam ao seu nível anterior de competição após a tenodese subpectoral do bíceps. Este regresso ocorre tipicamente numa média de 4,1 meses pós-operatórios. Pode esperar elevada satisfação e bons resultados se for cuidadosamente selecionado para o procedimento. As pacientes do sexo feminino também apresentam resultados comparáveis aos dos pacientes do sexo masculino em termos de alívio da dor, função e capacidade de regresso aos desportos após um seguimento mínimo de dois anos.

Se optar por não realizar cirurgia, ou se tiver mais de 40 anos, a tendência no tratamento está a mudar. Tem havido uma diminuição nas reparações SLAP e um aumento nas tenodeses do bíceps para pacientes com mais de 40 anos. Embora algumas pessoas consigam gerir a situação sem cirurgia, outras podem enfrentar dor persistente ou função limitada. Os fatores de risco para necessidade de cirurgia de revisão incluem ter mais de 40 anos, sexo feminino, obesidade, tabagismo ou ter tendinite do bíceps.

No geral, o prognóstico é encorajador. Seja jovem e ativo ou de meia-idade, as técnicas modernas oferecem formas fiáveis de gerir os seus sintomas. O seu cirurgião ajudá-lo-á a ponderar os benefícios do regresso precoce à atividade contra o tempo de cicatrização necessário. Com os cuidados adequados, a maioria dos pacientes recupera a utilização do ombro e regressa às atividades que aprecia.

Quando procurar um especialista

Procure uma avaliação especializada se tiver dor persistente no ombro que não melhora com o repouso. Procure atendimento se notar fraqueza, instabilidade ou se o ombro bloquear ou ceder. Consulte o seu médico de família se os sintomas interferirem no seu sono ou trabalho. A piora súbita da dor também é um motivo para procurar ajuda. Esteja ciente de que as lesões SLAP podem simular outras condições, como impingement ou problemas no manguito rotador. O diagnóstico não deve basear-se apenas em testes clínicos. Se a tendinite calcificante for suspeita, o seu cirurgião verificará a presença de uma lesão SLAP concomitante. A avaliação precoce ajuda a determinar se procedimentos como a tenodese do bíceps são adequados para a sua lesão específica.


Evidence & references

Overview

  • Both arthroscopic repair and biceps tenotomy and tenodesis interventions had benefits in type II SLAP lesions [1].
  • Biceps tenodesis is a safe, effective, and technically straightforward alternative to primary SLAP repair in patients with type II and IV SLAP tears [4].
  • SLAP repairs are generally favored in younger, active patients [6].
  • Treating the biceps is preferred in lower-demand patients aged >30 years [6].
  • Biceps tenodesis has been increasingly used for the management of SLAP lesions [7].
  • Recent studies report high rates of return to sport, high satisfaction, and good to excellent patient-reported outcomes with biceps tenodesis in carefully selected athletes [7].
  • SLAP repair and biceps tenodesis both present viable treatment options but come with specific advantages and disadvantages [8].
  • The decision between SLAP repair and biceps tenodesis is ultimately made individually with the patient [8].
  • Primary subpectoral open biceps tenodesis for SLAP tears or pathology of the long head of the biceps tendon provides significant improvement in shoulder outcomes [9].
  • Primary subpectoral open biceps tenodesis for SLAP tears or pathology of the long head of the biceps tendon provides a reliable return to activity level with low risk for complications [9].
  • Biceps tenodesis is a predictable, safe, and effective treatment for failed arthroscopic SLAP tears at a minimum 2-year follow-up [10].
  • Treatment of proximal biceps pathology is largely based on expert opinion and patient preferences rather than robust randomized evidence [20].
  • Primary biceps tenodesis offers increased effectiveness when compared with both primary SLAP repair and nonoperative treatment [24].
  • Primary biceps tenodesis has lower costs than primary SLAP repair [24].
  • The indications and technique of biceps tenodesis in the elite pitcher still need to be defined [26].
  • High-demand patients with biceps tendonitis in the setting of a SLAP lesion with labral instability who undergo combined tenodesis and labral repair have significantly worse outcomes than patients who undergo either isolated labral repair for type II SLAP tears or isolated biceps tenodesis for a SLAP tear and biceps tendonitis [44].

Anatomy & Pathophysiology

  • Understanding the function and pathology surrounding the teres minor is paramount in comprehensive management of patients with shoulder pathology [12].
  • In the context of rotator cuff disease, the etiology of anterior shoulder pain with macroscopic changes in the biceps tendon is related to the complex interaction of the tendon and surrounding soft tissues, rather than a single entity [17].
  • Biomechanical studies indicate that the long head of the biceps contributes to stability of the glenohumeral joint in all directions [28].
  • In vivo studies have not yet established the stabilizing effect of the long head of the biceps on the glenohumeral joint [28].
  • The physiologic load required for the long head of the biceps to stabilize the glenohumeral joint remains unknown [28].
  • The long head of the biceps has a pertinent biomechanical role in glenohumeral stability regardless of the condition of the superior labrum [32].
  • Validity for strength testing of the serratus anterior muscle is optimal with subjects in a seated position and the shoulder flexed at 90° in the scapular plane [33].
  • Treatment of scapular dyskinesis is directed at managing underlying causes and restoring normal scapular muscle activation patterns by kinetic chain–based rehabilitation protocols [35].
  • Both proposed superior labral reconstruction techniques increased the force needed for humeral head superior migration in the setting of a labral tear [36].
  • The long head of the biceps tendon serves as a source of local autograft with biological and biomechanical properties that aid outcomes of complex primary and revision shoulder surgery procedures [40].
  • Potential prognostic variables associated with final subscapularis strength remain elusive [42].
  • The ultimate load to failure and stiffness for unicortical button fixation and the compared method in proximal subpectoral biceps tenodesis were not different [43].

Classification

  • Arthroscopic repair and biceps tenotomy/tenodesis both provide benefits for type II SLAP lesions [1].
  • Calcific tendinitis of the long head of the biceps brachii at its origin may be associated with a concurrent SLAP lesion [2].
  • A positive subpectoral biceps test is associated with gross pathologic changes of the biceps in 93% of patients [3].
  • Biceps tenodesis is a safe, effective, and technically straightforward alternative to primary SLAP repair for type II and IV SLAP tears [4].
  • Biceps tenodesis yields consistent and reliable results for operative treatment in overhead athletes, whereas return to play after SLAP repair can be unpredictable [5].
  • SLAP repair and biceps tenodesis are both viable treatment options with specific advantages and disadvantages, with the decision made individually with the patient [8].
  • Appropriate treatment for biceps pathology, whether conservative or surgical, should be based on established pathology [11].
  • There is no single pattern of pain that distinguishes biceps conditions from other shoulder abnormalities [16].
  • In the context of rotator cuff disease, the etiology of anterior shoulder pain with macroscopic changes in the biceps tendon is related to the complex interaction of the tendon and surrounding soft tissues rather than a single entity [17].
  • Biceps tenodesis may be considered a valid primary or revision surgery for symptomatic type II SLAP tears due to no detrimental effect on glenohumeral stability [21].
  • Biceps tenodesis remains a reliable treatment for pathologic abnormality of the long head of the biceps [50].

Clinical Presentation

  • A positive subpectoral biceps test was associated with gross pathologic changes of the biceps in 93% of patients [3].
  • There is no single pattern of pain that distinguishes biceps conditions from other shoulder abnormalities [16].
  • In the context of rotator cuff disease, the etiology of anterior shoulder pain with macroscopic changes in the biceps tendon is related to the complex interaction of the tendon and surrounding soft tissues, rather than a single entity [17].
  • Diagnosis of long head biceps tendon and subscapularis pathology in association with shoulder rotator cuff pathology can be challenging due to limitations in MRI and arthroscopic visualization [22].
  • Surgeons should maintain a high level of suspicion and utilize specific techniques to prevent missing pathology when diagnosing long head biceps tendon and subscapularis pathology in association with shoulder rotator cuff pathology [22].
  • The concomitant presence of SLAP and pulley lesions is significantly rare, occurring in only about 10% of all patients with SLAP and pulley lesions [25].
  • If calcific tendinitis of the long head of the biceps brachii at its origin is suspected, it may be helpful to consider the presence of a concurrent SLAP lesion and its management [2].
  • A 10.1% incidence of subsequent surgery after isolated SLAP repair was identified, often related to an additional diagnosis [14].
  • Clinicians should consider other potential causes of shoulder pain when considering surgery for patients with SLAP lesions [14].

Investigations

  • A positive subpectoral biceps test was associated with gross pathologic changes of the biceps in 93% of patients [3].
  • There is no single pattern of pain that distinguishes biceps conditions from other shoulder abnormalities [16].
  • Biceps tendon pain in the absence of tears is associated with microscopic changes consistent with tendinopathy, which are often missed by MRI [46].
  • MRI and intraoperative assessment did not show significant structural abnormalities within the tendon despite significant histopathologic changes in patients with chronic long head biceps tendinopathy undergoing open subpectoral tenodesis [19].
  • Most abnormal MRI findings were not different in frequency between symptomatic and asymptomatic shoulders [47].
  • Bicipital groove morphology measured by MRI has no correlation to intra-articular biceps tendon pathology [48].
  • Preoperative MRI scans of the shoulder interpreted by orthopaedic surgeons with a systematic approach resulted in improved accuracy in diagnosing subscapularis tendon tears compared with previous studies [51].
  • Diagnosis of long head biceps tendon and subscapularis pathology in association with shoulder rotator cuff pathology can be challenging due to limitations in MRI and arthroscopic visualization [22].
  • In approximately 80% of intra-articular biceps tears evaluated, a 'hidden lesion' was observed going beyond the bicipital groove and extending to the distal extra-articular portion [55].
  • The myotendinous junction (MTJ) of the biceps begins further proximal than may be appreciated intraoperatively [56].
  • If calcific tendinitis of the long head of the biceps brachii at its origin is suspected, it may be helpful to consider the presence of a concurrent SLAP lesion [2].
  • Clinicians should consider other potential causes of shoulder pain when considering surgery for patients with SLAP lesions, as there is a 10.1% incidence of subsequent surgery after isolated SLAP repair often related to an additional diagnosis [14].

Treatment

Operative Management: SLAP Repair vs. Biceps Tenodesis/Tenotomy

  • Both arthroscopic repair and biceps tenotomy and tenodesis interventions had benefits in type II SLAP lesions [1].
  • Biceps tenodesis is a safe, effective, and technically straightforward alternative to primary SLAP repair in patients with type II and IV SLAP tears [4].
  • For operative treatment, biceps tenodesis has consistent and reliable results, whereas return to play after SLAP repair can be unpredictable [5].
  • SLAP repairs are generally favored in younger, active patients, whereas treating the biceps is preferred in lower-demand patients aged >30 years [6].
  • Biceps tenodesis has been increasingly used for the management of SLAP lesions, with recent studies reporting high rates of return to sport, high satisfaction, and good to excellent patient-reported outcomes in carefully selected athletes [7].
  • SLAP repair and biceps tenodesis both present viable treatment options but come with specific advantages and disadvantages, with the decision ultimately made individually with the patient [8].
  • Increased patient age correlates with the likelihood of treatment with biceps tenodesis or tenotomy versus SLAP repair [13].
  • Primary biceps tenodesis offers increased effectiveness when compared with both primary SLAP repair and nonoperative treatment and lower costs than primary SLAP repair [24].
  • The treatment option of biceps tenodesis is an appealing alternative to SLAP repair, but the indications and technique of biceps tenodesis in the elite pitcher still need to be defined [26].

Biceps Tenodesis vs. Tenotomy

  • Treatment of proximal biceps pathology is largely based on expert opinion and patient preferences rather than robust randomized evidence [20].
  • Patients undergoing treatment for LHBT or SLAP pathology with either biceps tenodesis or tenotomy can be expected to experience similar improvements in patient-reported and functional outcomes [23].
  • Patient age should not be used as the sole criterion when deciding between biceps tenotomy and tenodesis [49].

Subpectoral Biceps Tenodesis Outcomes

  • Primary subpectoral open biceps tenodesis for SLAP tears or pathology of the LHBT provides significant improvement in shoulder outcomes with a reliable return to activity level with low risk for complications [9].
  • Short-term follow-up of 20 procedures has not shown any failure of fixation or residual biceps discomfort [15].
  • Subpectoral biceps tenodesis utilizing a dual suture anchor technique is a treatment option for SLAP lesions, partial thickness tears, subluxation, and tenosynovitis of the long head of the biceps with high rates of postoperative patient satisfaction, a low failure rate, and improved outcome scores [31].
  • Biceps tenodesis is a predictable, safe, and effective treatment for failed arthroscopic SLAP tears at a minimum 2-year follow-up [10].
  • Although revision to subpectoral biceps tenodesis may be an effective strategy to address failed prior biceps surgery, the potential complication of persistent pain must be emphasized [54].

Nonoperative Management

  • Appropriate treatment for biceps pathology, whether conservative or surgical, should be based on established pathology [11].
  • Diagnosis and nonoperative management of long head of biceps tendon disorders are categorized as inflammation, instability, and rupture, requiring specific protocols [41].

Associated Pathology

  • If calcific tendinitis of the long head of the biceps brachii at its origin is suspected, it may be helpful to consider the presence of a concurrent SLAP lesion and its management [2].

Complications

  • A positive subpectoral biceps test was associated with gross pathologic changes of the biceps in 93% of patients [3].
  • The incidence of subsequent surgery after isolated arthroscopic SLAP repair is 10.1% [14].
  • Subsequent surgery after isolated SLAP repair is often related to an additional diagnosis [14].
  • Risk factors for revision surgery after SLAP repair include age >40 years [18].
  • Risk factors for revision surgery after SLAP repair include female sex [18].
  • Risk factors for revision surgery after SLAP repair include obesity [18].
  • Risk factors for revision surgery after SLAP repair include smoking [18].
  • Risk factors for revision surgery after SLAP repair include diagnosis of biceps tendinitis or long head of the biceps tearing [18].
  • Short-term follow-up of 20 procedures using an all-suture anchor fixation for subpectoral biceps tenodesis has not shown any failure of fixation [15].
  • Short-term follow-up of 20 procedures using an all-suture anchor fixation for subpectoral biceps tenodesis has not shown any residual biceps discomfort [15].
  • In patients with chronic long head biceps tendinopathy undergoing open subpectoral tenodesis, MRI and intraoperative assessment did not show significant structural abnormalities within the tendon despite significant histopathologic changes [19].

Recovery

  • Arthroscopic repair and biceps tenotomy/tenodesis both provide benefits for type II SLAP lesions [1].
  • Biceps tenodesis is a safe, effective, and technically straightforward alternative to primary SLAP repair for type II and IV SLAP tears [4].
  • Biceps tenodesis yields consistent and reliable results for operative treatment in overhead athletes, whereas return to play after SLAP repair can be unpredictable [5].
  • Biceps tenodesis is increasingly used for SLAP lesions, with recent studies reporting high rates of return to sport, high satisfaction, and good to excellent patient-reported outcomes in carefully selected athletes [7].
  • SLAP repair and biceps tenodesis are both viable treatment options with specific advantages and disadvantages, with the decision made individually with the patient [8].
  • Primary subpectoral open biceps tenodesis for SLAP tears or long head of the biceps pathology provides significant improvement in shoulder outcomes, reliable return to activity level, and low risk for complications [9].
  • Biceps tenodesis is a predictable, safe, and effective treatment for failed arthroscopic SLAP tears at a minimum 2-year follow-up [10].
  • Increased patient age correlates with the likelihood of treatment with biceps tenodesis or tenotomy versus SLAP repair [13].
  • There is a 10.1% incidence of subsequent surgery after isolated SLAP repair, often related to an additional diagnosis [14].
  • Short-term follow-up of 20 procedures using an all-suture anchor fixation for subpectoral biceps tenodesis showed no failure of fixation or residual biceps discomfort [15].
  • Risk factors for revision surgery after SLAP repair include age >40 years, female sex, obesity, smoking, and diagnosis of biceps tendinitis or long head of the biceps tearing [18].
  • Biceps tenodesis may be considered a valid primary or revision surgery for symptomatic type II SLAP tears due to no detrimental effect on glenohumeral stability [21].
  • Superior clinical outcomes are seen in nonsmokers, those with only 1 tendon affected, and those who undergo tenotomy instead of tenodesis for a damaged long head of biceps tendon [58].

Key Evidence

  • [L1] Both arthroscopic repair and biceps tenotomy and tenodesis interventions had benefits in type II SLAP lesions. [1] (10.1186/s13018-019-1096-y)
  • [L4] The authors conclude that if calcific tendinitis of the long head of the biceps brachii at its origin is suspected, it may be helpful to consider the presence of a concurrent SLAP lesion and its management. [2] (10.1007/s00167-007-0323-y)
  • [L3] A positive subpectoral biceps test was associated with gross pathologic changes of the biceps in 93% of patients. [3] (10.1016/j.arthro.2019.02.017)
  • [L4] Based on these results, biceps tenodesis is a safe, effective, and technically straightforward alternative to primary SLAP repair in patients with type II and IV SLAP tears. [4] (10.1177/0363546514540273)
  • [L5] For operative treatment, biceps tenodesis has consistent and reliable results, whereas return to play after SLAP repair can be unpredictable. [5] (10.1016/j.csm.2015.08.009)
  • [L5] SLAP repairs are generally favored in younger, active patients, whereas treating the biceps is preferred in lower-demand patients aged >30 years. [6] (10.1016/j.jse.2024.09.040)
  • [L5] Biceps tenodesis has been increasingly used for the management of SLAP lesions, with recent studies reporting high rates of return to sport, high satisfaction, and good to excellent patient-reported outcomes in carefully selected athletes. [7] (10.5435/jaaos-d-21-01199)
  • [L5] SLAP repair and biceps tenodesis both present viable treatment options but come with specific advantages and disadvantages, with the decision ultimately made individually with the patient. [8] (10.1016/j.arthro.2019.02.026)
  • [L4] Primary subpectoral open biceps tenodesis for SLAP tears or pathology of the LHBT provides significant improvement in shoulder outcomes with a reliable return to activity level with low risk for complications. [9] (10.1016/j.arthro.2019.06.035)
  • [L4] Biceps tenodesis is a predictable, safe, and effective treatment for failed arthroscopic SLAP tears at a minimum 2-year follow-up. [10] (10.1177/0363546513520122)
  • [Paper] The article outlines that appropriate treatment for biceps pathology, whether conservative or surgical, should be based on established pathology. [11] (10.1016/j.csm.2009.12.003)
  • [L5] Understanding the function and pathology surrounding the teres minor is paramount in comprehensive management of the patient with shoulder pathology. [12] (10.5435/jaaos-d-15-00258)
  • [L3] Increased patient age correlates with the likelihood of treatment with biceps tenodesis or tenotomy versus SLAP repair. [13] (10.1177/0363546514534939)
  • [L3] We identified a 10.1% incidence of subsequent surgery after isolated SLAP repair, often related to an additional diagnosis, suggesting that clinicians should consider other potential causes of shoulder pain when considering surgery for patients with SLAP lesions. [14] (10.1016/j.arthro.2016.01.053)
  • [L5] Short-term follow-up of 20 procedures has not shown any failure of fixation or residual biceps discomfort. [15] (10.1007/s00167-014-3348-z)
  • [L5] There is no single pattern of pain that distinguishes biceps conditions from other shoulder abnormalities. [16] (10.1016/j.csm.2015.08.004)
  • [L4] In the context of rotator cuff disease, the etiology of anterior shoulder pain with macroscopic changes in the biceps tendon is related to the complex interaction of the tendon and surrounding soft tissues, rather than a single entity. [17] (10.1016/j.jse.2008.05.044)
  • [L3] Risk factors for revision surgery after SLAP repair include age >40 years, female sex, obesity, smoking, and diagnosis of biceps tendinitis or long head of the biceps tearing. [18] (10.1177/0363546517691950)
  • [L4] In patients with chronic long head biceps tendinopathy who underwent open subpectoral tenodesis, MRI and intraoperative assessment did not show significant structural abnormalities within the tendon despite significant histopathologic changes. [19] (10.1016/j.arthro.2018.01.021)
  • [L5] Treatment of proximal biceps pathology is largely based on expert opinion and patient preferences rather than robust randomized evidence. [20] (10.1097/corr.0000000000002448)
  • [L5] Biceps tenodesis may be considered a valid primary or revision surgery for patients suffering from symptomatic type II SLAP tears due to no detrimental effect on glenohumeral stability. [21] (10.1016/j.jse.2013.07.036)
  • [L5] Diagnosis of long head biceps tendon and subscapularis pathology in association with shoulder rotator cuff pathology can be challenging due to limitations in MRI and arthroscopic visualization; surgeons should maintain a high level of suspicion and utilize specific techniques to prevent missing pathology. [22] (10.1016/j.arthro.2017.09.005)
  • [L1] Patients undergoing treatment for LHBT or SLAP pathology with either biceps tenodesis or tenotomy can be expected to experience similar improvements in patient-reported and functional outcomes. [23] (10.1016/j.jse.2020.11.012)
  • [L3] Primary biceps tenodesis offers increased effectiveness when compared with both primary SLAP repair and nonoperative treatment and lower costs than primary SLAP repair. [24] (10.1016/j.arthro.2018.01.029)
  • [L4] The concomitant presence of SLAP and pulley lesions is significantly rare, occurring in only about 10% of all patients with SLAP and pulley lesions. [25] (10.1016/j.arthro.2011.01.005)
  • [L5] The treatment option of biceps tenodesis is an appealing alternative to SLAP repair, but the indications and technique of biceps tenodesis in the elite pitcher still need to be defined. [26] (10.1016/j.arthro.2018.01.001)
  • [L5] Biomechanical studies indicate that the long head of the biceps contributes to stability of the glenohumeral joint in all directions, though in vivo studies have yet to establish this stabilizing effect and the physiologic load required remains unknown. [28] (10.1016/j.arthro.2010.10.014)
  • [L4] Subpectoral biceps tenodesis utilizing a dual suture anchor technique is a treatment option for SLAP lesions, partial thickness tears, subluxation, and tenosynovitis of the long head of the biceps with high rates of postoperative patient satisfaction, a low failure rate, and improved outcome scores. [31] (10.1007/s00402-017-2810-z)
  • [L5] The long head of the biceps has a pertinent biomechanical role in glenohumeral stability regardless of the condition of the superior labrum. [32] (10.1016/j.arthro.2025.05.022)
  • [L4] Validity for strength testing of the serratus anterior muscle is optimal with subjects in a seated position and the shoulder flexed at 90° in the scapular plane. [33] (10.1186/s12891-019-2741-7)
  • [L5] Treatment is directed at managing underlying causes and restoring normal scapular muscle activation patterns by kinetic chain–based rehabilitation protocols. [35] (10.5435/00124635-200303000-00008)
  • [L5] Both proposed superior labral reconstruction techniques increased the force needed for humeral head superior migration in the setting of a labral tear. [36] (10.1016/j.arthro.2018.08.049)
  • [L5] This review examines the role of the LHBT as a source of local autograft, with biological and biomechanical properties, in aiding outcomes of complex primary and revision shoulder surgery procedures. [40] (10.1016/j.jse.2023.04.009)
  • [L5] Diagnosis and nonoperative management of long head of biceps tendon disorders are categorized as inflammation, instability, and rupture, requiring specific protocols. [41] (10.1016/j.csm.2015.08.006)
  • [L4] Potential prognostic variables associated with final subscapularis strength remain elusive. [42] (10.1016/j.jse.2014.06.042)
  • [L5] The ultimate load to failure and stiffness for the two methods were not different. [43] (10.1007/s00167-013-2775-6)
  • [L3] High-demand patients with biceps tendonitis in the setting of a SLAP lesion with labral instability who undergo combined tenodesis and labral repair have significantly worse outcomes than patients who undergo either isolated labral repair for type II SLAP tears or isolated biceps tenodesis for a SLAP tear and biceps tendonitis. [44] (10.1007/s00167-015-3774-6)
  • [L5] Biceps tendon pain in the absence of tears is associated with microscopic changes consistent with tendinopathy, which are often missed by MRI. [46] (10.1016/j.csm.2015.08.002)
  • [L3] Most abnormal MRI findings were not different in frequency between symptomatic and asymptomatic shoulders. [47] (10.1016/j.jse.2019.04.001)
  • [L1] We do not find any value in bicipital groove morphology measured by MRI as a predictor of biceps tendon or rotator cuff pathology at the time of surgery. [48] (10.1016/j.jse.2010.04.044)
  • [L4] Patient age should not be used as the sole criterion when deciding between biceps tenotomy and tenodesis. [49] (10.1016/j.arthro.2016.04.022)
  • [L3] Biceps tenodesis remains a reliable treatment for pathologic abnormality of the long head of the biceps. [50] (10.1177/0363546515570024)
  • [L3] Preoperative MRI scans of the shoulder interpreted by orthopaedic surgeons with the described systematic approach resulted in improved accuracy in diagnosing subscapularis tendon tears compared with previous studies. [51] (10.1016/j.arthro.2012.04.142)
  • [L4] Although this may be an effective strategy to address failed prior biceps surgery, the potential complication of persistent pain must be emphasized. [54] (10.1177/0363546519892922)
  • [L4] In approximately 80% of the intra-articular biceps tears evaluated in this study, a 'hidden lesion' was observed going beyond the bicipital groove and extending to the distal extra-articular portion. [55] (10.1177/0363546514554193)
  • [L5] The MTJ of the biceps begins further proximal than may be appreciated intraoperatively. [56] (10.1177/0363546513482297)
  • [L4] Superior clinical outcomes are seen in nonsmokers, those with only 1 tendon affected, and those who undergo tenotomy instead of tenodesis for a damaged long head of biceps tendon. [58] (10.1016/j.jse.2019.12.011)

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