Robert J. Joplin

Roentgenographic changes in nailed slipped capital femoral epiphysis.

Roentgenograms have been presented to illustrate: See image in the PDF file See image in the PDF file 1. The results of the treatment of slipped capital femoral epiphysis by nailing in situ and by nailing after osteotomy and replacement. 2. The prevention of further slipping acceleration of fusion of the epiphysis, and preservation of a relatively normal anatomy of the hip, accomplished by this method. 3. The absence of the accelerated fusion in four cases, in which growth persisted until the epiphyscal plate had advanced beyond the end of the nail. The results of this method of treatment suggest that adequate replacement with a minimal amount of circulatory embarrassment to the femoral head and neck, followed by early mobilization and weight-bearing with the aid of crutches, is of paramount importance. Treatment of the slipping while it is minimal permits a simpler operative procedure with an excellent prognosis, and eliminates the hazards and the inferior results stemming from the difficult procedure which is indicated after the slipping has become marked.