Our objective is to show the results of the unstable slipped capital femoral epiphysis treatment with reduction and threaded screw fixation.

A retrospective analysis of 21 patients (13 boys and 8 girls) with unstable slipped capital femoral epiphysis was performed between 1993 and 1998. The right hip was involved in 13 patients and the left hip in 8. The patients presented acute pain and functional difficulties. The diagnoses were based on the clinical presentation, neutral and Lowestein hip x-rays. The treatment consisted on gentle manipulative reduction of the unstable slip (flexion and internal rotation), threaded cannulated screw fixation on orthopaedic table and image intensifier control.

Results showed 2 avascular necrosis, 2 bone shortening, 3 limited range of motion. The rest showed satisfactory clinical results in the short term.