Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is a comparatively rare disorder with various new treatment modalities. Twenty-nine hips (27 patients) in this study were treated (1971-2004). Mean age was 12.5 years, and mean follow-up period was 54.7 months. Among unilateral SCFE patients, there were 7 acute, 6 acute on chronic, and 16 chronic SCFE. Average posterior tilting angle (PTA) on admission was 47.6 degrees. Pinning was performed on 11, osteotomy on 9, and in situ pinning on 9 hips. Unaffected-side prophylactic fixation was performed on 13 hips (44.8%). Postoperative complications of avascular necrosis of the femoral head were noted in 7 hips (24.1%). Femoral head deformity was noted in 3 hips (10.3%). For acute SCFE, we perform gentle reduction by traction and epiphysiodesis. For chronic slips, we perform epiphysiodesis or osteotomy. Opinions remain divided concerning unaffected-side prophylactic fixation; however, we consider observation sufficient. The Postoperative complication rate was higher in acute slips. Femoral head avascular necrosis is caused by failure of the remaining capital nutrient vessels. Anatomical reduction of the epiphysis is necessary. Therefore, prophylaxis is indispensable to prevent avascular necrosis. In future reports, we will include many more cases with these procedures, focusing on improved results and patient benefits.
