Slipped upper femoral epiphysis--a review of 12 years of experience in Glasgow (1972-1983).

We conducted a retrospective study of 97 cases of slipped capital femoral epiphysis occurring in 77 children. Gradual epiphyseal slip frequently occurred, and complications were more frequent with greater degrees of slips. Diagnostic delay should, therefore, be avoided, and a high index of suspicion is necessary when adolescents with leg pain or limp are examined. Minor epiphyseal slip should be carefully fixed in situ, and we suggest that the remainder undergo a gentle manipulation. Only those hips with a persisting deformity need undergo femoral osteotomy.