Editorial Commentary: Return to Play in Overhead Athletes After Biceps Tenodesis for SLAP Lesions Is Inconsistent

Abstract

The optimal surgical management for the superior labrum anterior to posterior (SLAP) lesion in the overhead athlete remains elusive. Return to play (RTP) or return to sport (RTS) with both SLAP repair and biceps tenodesis in this subgroup has been inconsistent, complicated by incomplete description of what RTP actually involves. While the recent literature regarding biceps tenodesis for SLAP lesions is encouraging, longer-term follow-up and a clear definition of criteria that define what "RTP" looks like will be critical prior to universally embracing biceps tenodesis as a definitive SLAP management option for overhead athletes.