Arthroscopic subcapital realignment osteotomy in chronic and stable slipped capital femoral epiphysis: early results

Abstract

ObjectiveThis study aimed to evaluate the clinical and radiographic outcomes, as well as the complications of arthroscopic subcapital realignment osteotomy in chronic and stable slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE). As indicated by the literature review, this is the first time this type of arthroscopic osteotomy was described.MethodsBetween June 2012 and December 2014, seven patients were submitted to arthroscopic subcapital realignment osteotomy in chronic and stable SCFE. The mean age was 11 years and 4 months, and the mean follow-up period was 16.5 months (6–36). Clinical results were evaluated using the Modified Harris Hip Score (MHHS), which was measured pre- and postoperatively. Radiographs were evaluated using the Southwick quantitative classification and the epiphysis–diaphysis angle (pre- and postoperatively). Complications were assessed.ResultsThe mean preoperative MHHS was 35.8 points, and 97.5 points post-operatively (p < 0.05). Radiographically, five patients were classified as Southwick classification grade II and two as grade III. The mean correction of the epiphysis-diaphysis angle was 40°. No immediate postoperatively complications were observed. One patient presented femoral head avascular necrosis, without collapse or chondrolysis at the most recent follow-up (22 months)ConclusionThe arthroscopic technique presented for subcapital realignment osteotomy in chronic and stable SCFE showed satisfactory clinical and radiographic outcomes in a 16.5 months follow-up period.

What the papers say

“…Surgeons are pushing the boundaries of hip arthroscopic intervention and Roos et al [ 4 ] from Passo Fundo, Brazil have extended its role in deformity correction in slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE). This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and radiographic outcomes, as well as the complications of arthroscopic subcapital realignment osteotomy in chronic and stable SCFE.…”