Arthroscopic Treatment of Iatrogenic Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis Screw Impingement and Associated Hip Pathology

Background: Screw impingement is an infrequently reported sequelae following in situ pinning of a slipped capital femoral epiphysis, but it may result in significant bony and chondrolabral degeneration. Hip arthroscopy may offer the advantage of screw removal in a minimally invasive manner under direct visualization, as well as providing the opportunity for management of concomitant hip pathology. Indications: A healthy, active 27-year-old woman with right hip dysfunction secondary to screw impingement and concomitant chondrolabral pathology following previous in situ pinning of a slipped capital femoral epiphysis. Technique Description: The patient elected to undergo arthroscopic removal of hardware, osteochondroplasty, and management of hip labrum pathology. After the screw was localized, a 2.8-mm pin was inserted down the cannulated center of the screw to prevent intraarticular displacement during removal. The screw and washer were removed intact, and femoroplasty was performed to remove the reactive bone and resolve the cam-type impingement. Acetabuloplasty was then performed to remove pincer-type impingement and provide an appropriate rim of bone for labral reconstruction. The pathologic labrum was then debrided and reconstructed with a semitendinosus allograft. Results: There were no immediate complications following surgery. Surgical management led to resolution of the patient’s mechanical symptoms and provided pain relief, which allowed return to prior baseline level of function. Discussion/Conclusion: Symptomatic screws that impinge the osteochondral and soft tissue anatomy of the hip require removal. Historically, these screws have been removed by open, mini-open, or percutaneous techniques. This case demonstrates the advantages of arthroscopic removal, as it affords the surgeon the ability to perform a dynamic examination, safely remove the screw, and directly visualize and manage concomitant hip pathology that may not be otherwise be recognizable. Further studies will be required to determine the ability of this technique to more clearly illustrate long-term improvement in function and prevention of the development of osteoarthritis.