Surgical Technique: Open Reduction and Internal Fixation for Unstable Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis

Failure to reduce displacement of the epiphysis after an unstable slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) can lead to femoroacetabular impingement, labral damage, and early degeneration of articular cartilage. Surgical dislocation of the hip has provided us with a safe means to reduce and fix the epiphysis after an unstable slip. This article details the surgical technique for open reduction and internal fixation of the unstable SCFE, using the surgical hip dislocation approach. Early results are promising and demonstrate the safety of surgical hip dislocation used for the unstable SCFE, reproducing the safety of the procedure for elective applications. This method should be considered for any unstable SCFE, especially as surgeon experience improves.

Keywords: surgical hip dislocation, slipped capital femoral epiphysis