Functional outcomes, complications and revision rate of hip arthroplasty in patients with sequelae of slipped capital femoral epiphysis: a systematic review

Background: Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) results in alterations to femoral head anatomy, predisposing patients to degenerative hip disease at a young age. Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is performed to relieve symptoms and improve function. However, it can be associated with a variable outcomes and little evidence exists on the functional outcomes, complications and revision rate following such procedures.

Purpose: The aim of this systematic review is to determine the safety and effectiveness of performing hip arthroplasty in patients with degenerative hips secondary to SCFE.

Methodology: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A literature review was conducted of MEDLINE and Embase. Both single-arm and comparative studies were included. The outcomes of interest were functional scores, post-operative complications and revision rate.

Results: Six studies fit the inclusion criteria. Of these, five were retrospective single-arm studies and one was a retrospective comparative study based on registry data.

All studies reported significant improvement in hip function and quality of life after THA. An overall revision rate of 11.9% was reported, occurring at a mean of 6.5 years (0.75–18.7 years).

THA in patients after SCFE leads to improved functional outcomes that are comparable to patients receiving THA for osteoarthritis. The revision rate appears to be higher than is reported in patients undergoing THA for osteoarthritis at mid-term follow-up. Further prospective comparative studies are needed to evaluate the efficacy of the treatment in more detail.