Anterolateral approach to the hip for bone graft epiphysiodesis in the treatment of slipped capital femoral epiphysis.

In an effort to accommodate the needs of the majority of orthopedic surgeons who might encounter cases of slipped capital femoral epiphysis, an operative approach familiar to everyday practice was sought. Thirty-two cases of slipped capital femoral epiphysis were treated by bone graft epiphysiodesis using an anterolateral approach in contrast to the more traditionally used iliofemoral (Smith-Peterson) approach. Experience has shown this to be a better approach based on reduced operating time, less blood loss, avoidance of damage to the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve, improved wound healing, and for the operating surgeon, familiarity with an exposure utilized in total hip replacement.