Rates of Revision for Progressive Deformity and Contralateral Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis Using a Partially Threaded Cannulated Screw: A Retrospective Review

Background: Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is a problem affecting the pediatric population, with high rates of re-slip and contralateral pinnings. The purpose of this study was to identify both rates of recurrence and contralateral slips after in situ pinning of stable and unstable SCFE. Materials and Methods: Pediatric patients who underwent in situ and revision pinning of SCFE from January 2000 to December 2022 were reviewed for subsequent procedures, including contralateral pinning and revision procedures. All hips were pinned in situ using a technique consisting of a single, cannulated, 6.5-mm partially threaded screw. Association with age and sex were prioritized and compared with previous literature. Data analysis was performed using t tests and chi-square tests. Statistical significance was set at P>.05. Results: Eighty-eight patients were selected for review, with a total of 124 native hips pinned and 7 revision hips (5.6% revised for progression of deformity). Twelve contralateral hips underwent sequential pinning for contralateral slip (24.0% of all unilateral procedures performed). Seventy-four percent of patients were male. The mean age at initial slip for patients who did not undergo a subsequent procedure was 13.0±1.5 years, compared with 10.8±1.6 years for contralateral slips and 11.5±1.5 years for revision hips (P<.001). Conclusion: The rates of revision and contralateral slip were comparable to and slightly lower than those reported in the current literature. The complication rate for this procedure is low. This study demonstrates a safe and an efficient technique for management of SCFE.