Editorial Commentary: Subpectoral Biceps Tenodesis Is a Safe Alternative to Arthroscopic Repair for Unstable SLAP Tear in the Young Athlete: Should We Do the Last Operation First?

Abstract

The clinical significance of structural pathology affecting the biceps-superior labrum complex may be highly variable. Among younger, physically active patients with symptomatic superior labrum anterior-posterior (SLAP) tears that have failed to respond to nonoperative treatment, we continue to lack clear high-level evidence to guide surgical decision making, including a decision between arthroscopic SLAP repair or primary biceps tenodesis for more unstable, type II lesions. Rates of patient satisfaction, return to play, return to prior level of activity, and secondary revision rate are widely reported, and we lack consensus for surgical best practice treatment. With the high rate of postoperative stiffness and revision reoperation and inconsistent functional outcomes after modern arthroscopic shoulder SLAP repair with knotless anchor technology, subpectoral biceps tenodesis may emerge as a primary alternative for treating the young athlete with unstable SLAP tears.