Total hip replacement for the treatment of atraumatic slipped femoral capital epiphysis in dogs

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate dogs diagnosed with slipped femoral capital epiphysis which were treated by total hip replacement. METHODS: Clinical and radiographic records of consecutive cases of slipped femoral capital epiphysis treated by total hip replacement were reviewed. Longer-term follow-up was by owner questionnaire. RESULTS: Fifteen cases were identified; 14 were affected unilaterally, 1 bilaterally. Median age at presentation was 13 months (range 6 to 30); median weight was 35 kg (range 10 to 66). Radiographically, proximal femoral sclerosis was evident in 13 of 16 hips. Thirteen hybrid and three cemented total hip replacements were performed. One dog had a stem complication five months postoperatively necessitating explantation. All other total hip replacements remained functional. At four weeks postoperatively lameness and pain scores were improved in all cases. Fourteen total hip replacements were examined after three months. Lameness was mild in 2 limbs and absent in 12; pain on manipulation was not apparent in any case. Significant radiographic complications were not encountered. Telephone questionnaires were performed for 14 cases (15 total hip replacements) at a median of 22 months postoperatively (range 8 to 45). Lameness was reportedly absent for 12 limbs and intermittent in 3. All owners felt that their dogs' quality of life was good. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Total hip replacement can be a successful technique to treat slipped femoral capital epiphysis.