[Factors influencing the development of chondrolysis in children treated for slipped capital femoral epiphysis].

INTRODUCTION

Chondrolysis is an infrequent but serious complication of the treatment of slipped capital femoral epiphysis. The objective of this study was to identify factors influencing the development of chondrolysis.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

The medical records of the patients operated on between 1989 and 2009 at the Rabat Children's Hospital for treatment of slipped capital femoral epiphysis were retrospectively evaluated. The minimum follow-up was 24 months. The risk of development of chondrolysis was correlated with various parameters. Statistical analysis was performed using a logistic regression model (binary outcome).

RESULTS

A total of 140 patients were included in this study. The average age was 13 years and 4 months. The incidence of chondrolysis was 11.4% (16 patients). Chondrolysis was significantly associated with obesity (25%, P<0.001) and with a delay in the diagnosis of slipped capital femoral epiphysis exceeding 60 days (75%, P=0.01) DISCUSSION: In this series, intra-articular pin penetration is not a risk factor for chondrolysis. The association of obesity and a diagnosis delay beyond 60 days increases the risk of occurrence of chondrolysis in children operated on for slipped capital femoral epiphysis. Chondrolysis can be prevented mainly through early diagnosis of slipped capital femoral epiphysis.