Open reduction of slipped capital femoral epiphysis

The procedure

Open reduction is a surgical operation used to fix a slipped capital femoral epiphysis back into its correct position. The procedure is done with the patient under a general anaesthetic. Different techniques can be used. The aim is to reduce the risk of a side effect called avascular necrosis, where the bone in the socket dies. This is done by making sure there is a good blood supply to the epiphysis during the procedure. The hip may be dislocated during and after the procedure, then a section of bone is removed from the top of the thigh bone, the epiphysis is realigned and then fixed in place with 1 or 2 screws or wire.