Biceps Anchor Repair for SLAP Type IX Tears in Patients Under 20 Years Old

Abstract Background Anterior shoulder instability is the most frequent type of glenohumeral instability which poses diagnostic and surgical challenges, particularly in young, active patients. Type IX Superior Labrum Anterior to Posterior (SLAP) lesions represent a rare and complex subset of shoulder injuries that involves 360° of the glenohumeral labrum. Methods In our retrospective case series study, we evaluated four professional athletes aged 17–19 who sustained first-time traumatic shoulder dislocations and were diagnosed with Type IX SLAP lesions. Arthroscopic labral repair was performed by a single surgeon on all patients. Diagnosis was confirmed intraoperatively, with two cases identified preoperatively with MRI. Patients were evaluated postoperatively at 6, 12, and 24 months using the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) and Constant-Murley (CS) scores. Results All patients reported improvement in shoulder function and stability post-surgery. Mean ASES scores improved from 50 preoperatively to 88 at 24 months, and Constant Scores rose from 46 to 88.8. Three of four patients returned to pre-injury levels of athletic performance, with all resuming full occupational duties. No complications or re-injuries were reported. Conclusion Arthroscopic SLAP repair provides an effective treatment for Type IX lesions in young athletes, preserving the native anatomy and supporting full functional recovery. While biceps tenodesis may be considered in older or degenerative cases, SLAP repair remains the preferred option in this patient population. Further studies with larger cohorts are warranted to validate these findings and guide long-term management.