SLAP Tear Specialist Singapore

Dr. Bryan Tan

MBBS (Singapore)

MMed (Ortho)

FRCS Ed (Orth)

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Dr. Bryan Tan

Orthopaedic Surgeon

Sports have always played a big part in Dr Bryan’s life. His interest in sports and varied sporting activities give him a deep understanding of sports injuries and the mindset of an athlete.

The condition often develops gradually over time and is difficult to detect. This painful condition affects 2-5% of the general population.

Dr Bryan Tan is a fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon, based in Singapore. He completed 2 fellowships in Orthopaedic Sports, Shoulder and Elbow Surgery in Sydney, Australia and Nice, France. Prior to private practice, Dr Bryan was a consultant in the Division of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery in National University Hospital (NUH), Singapore. He is currently still a visiting consultant at NUH where he actively teaches medical students and young orthopaedic surgical trainees. In addition, he travels to regional countries to teach advanced arthroscopic surgical techniques.

MBBS(Singapore)
MMed (Ortho)
FRCS Ed(Orth)

Dr. Bryan has a special interest in keyhole surgery and performs most of his surgeries using advanced, modern keyhole surgical techniques. He regularly visits fellow surgeons from other countries to ensure his skills and knowledge are cutting edge.

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What Is a SLAP Tear?

A SLAP (superior labrum from anterior to posterior) tear is a type of shoulder injury that affects the labrum, the cartilage ring attached to the rim of the shallow socket (glenoid) of the shoulder joint. The shoulder labrum helps to provide stability to the shoulder joints by improving the fit between the ball and socket of the shoulder joint. It is also the attachment point of various ligaments and a tendon. SLAP tears are most common amongst athletes who consistently engage their shoulders in overhead movements.

It is crucial to understand your symptoms and seek medical treatment as soon as you can, as early diagnosis and treatment can reduce the complications of a SLAP tear.

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The following are accredited For Singaporeans, Singapore Permanent Residents and Foreigners. If your insurance is not listed, you will still be able to make claims for eligible procedures! We have experience processing claims from many other various insurance providers. Please contact us if you have any queries.

What Causes a SLAP Tear?

Overuse of the shoulders
Excessively forceful and explosive overhead movements of the shoulder (eg when doing a hard tennis serve or throwing a ball forcefully during sport)
Sudden twisting injuries to the shoulder (eg during weight lifting accidents)
Shoulder dislocation

How Is a SLAP Tear Treated?

The treatment options depend on the severity of the tear. There are generally two types of methods: Non-surgical and surgical treatment. It is important to note that non-surgical treatments often do not result in healing of the tear. However they can help to reduce pain and improve function of the shoulder in some instances.

Non-Surgical Methods

These methods may include:

Physical therapy such as simple stretching and strengthening exercises.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen,naproxen and etoricoxib can reduce pain and inflammation.

Surgery

In severe SLAP tear cases, surgical repair is recommended. A minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery will be performed to reattach the torn labrum. This is highly effective and patient satisfaction and eventual return to sport is excellent.

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What’s the first step?

Embark on Your Road to Recovery With Dr Bryan Tan

step 1

Book An Appointment
With Dr. Bryan

Our friendly clinic staff will assist you with your registration, ensuring an efficient and hassle-free process for you. Fill up this form to schedule an appointment with Dr. Bryan.

step 2

Initial Consultation & Diagnosis of your Condition

During your consultation, Dr. Bryan will evaluate your medical history and the pain you are experiencing. You may also ask Dr. Bryan any questions you may have about your condition.

step 3

Treatment & Follow Up Visits With Dr. Bryan

After your consultation with Dr. Bryan, our friendly clinic staff will assist you with your follow-up appointment, and provide you with instructions/information for any prescribed treatment plans from Dr. Bryan.

Frequently Asked
Questions

Is a SLAP tear serious? When should I visit the doctor?

A SLAP tear does not naturally heal by itself. Hence, if left untreated, these tears can cause chronic pain and severely limit shoulder mobility and function.

It is vital to seek immediate medical attention if you suspect you have a SLAP injury to prevent further long-term complications.

How long will it take to recover after surgery?

The recovery period differs for each person, depending on the severity of the labral tear and the extent of the surgery.

It will generally take about 5 to 6 months to heal completely after surgery. However you may resume lower limb activites and cardio exercises as early as 3-5 days after the surgery.

How to prevent a SLAP tear?

Warm-up and stretch your body before exercising or engaging in rigorous activities
Ensure that your body and muscles are suitably conditioned before attempting to perform exercises or activites that involve forceful loading of the shoulders, e.g. (hard forceful tennis flat serves, throwing balls at high velocity, lifting of heavy weights etc).
Ensure proper form and technique when engaging in sports or weight lifting