Prophylactic Dynamic Screw Fixation of the Asymptomatic Hip in Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis

Abstract

Summary Prophylactic dynamic screw fixation (DSF) of clinically and radiographically unaffected hips of 34 patients with a contralateral slipped capital femoral epiphysis and no evidence of an endocrinopathy or systemic disorder was performed using a single cannulated screw. Follow-up ranged from 2 to 12 years (average, 5.4 years). There was no case of perioperative complication and no avascular necrosis or chondrolysis occurred. No preslip or slip became apparent. In all 34 hips, no tendency toward premature closure of the epiphysis could be observed, no growth disturbance including greater trochanteric overgrowth, coxa brevis, or coxa vara was noted. This study supports the prophylactic treatment of the asymptomatic hip, using a simple and safe fixation method.