Mechanical Failure of 2 Cannulated Screw Fixation for Unstable SCFE: A Case Report

JBJS Case Connect. 2021 Dec 15;11(4). doi: 10.2106/JBJS.CC.21.00501.

Abstract

Case: A 13-year-old obese boy presented with an acute-on-chronic unstable left slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE). He underwent in situ surgical fixation with two 6.5-mm fully threaded cannulated screws. At 6 months, he presented with mechanical failure of both screws. He underwent screw removal, revision in situ fixation, a peritrochanteric flexion and internal rotational osteotomy, and an open femoroplasty. The osteotomy healed at 6 weeks. The femoral physis took an additional year to close.

Conclusion: This case highlights an uncommon complication of in situ pinning of SCFE, discusses revision fixation options, and suggests possible prolonged physeal closure in severe slips.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Bone Screws
  • Femur
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Osteotomy
  • Range of Motion, Articular
  • Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphyses* / diagnostic imaging
  • Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphyses* / surgery