Aim: To compare outcomes in patients who suffered a severe slipped upper femoral epiphysis (SUFE) treated by either a modified Dunn or Imhauser Osteotomy.

Method: A consecutive group of patients were identified retrospectively from the operative records of a single surgeon at two hospitals since 2003. Patient Notes were used to extract age at presentation, duration of symptoms, stability, and time to surgery. Radiographs were examined to determine: the slip angle; and the degree of correction achieved. Patients were assessed using the Harris and Oxford Hip Scores.

Results: Seven patients had a modified Dunn osteotomy and 11 patients an Imhauser osteotomy. Of those only 6 of the Dunn patients and 7 of the Imhauser patients could be recalled for clinical assessment. The average time to clinical assessment from osteotomy was 13.5 months for the Dunn group and 32 months for the Imhauser group. Post-operative lateral radiographs showed a mean angle of deformity correction of 63 degrees in the Dunn and 36 degrees in the Imhauser groups. There were no postoperative complications in either group, specifically no avascular necrosis.

In the Dunn group the Harris Hip Score ranged from 78 to 100, mean 92 (excellent) and the Oxford Hip scores from 12 to 21, mean 17. The Harris Hip Score for the Imhauser group ranged from 50 to 98, mean 76 (fair), and the Oxford scores from 13 to 34, mean 25. Range of motion was similar for both groups in all directions.

Conclusions: The Dunn and Imhauser osteotomies both give good clinical results in the severe SUFE patient. However the Dunn Osteotomy group had better Harris and Oxford Hip Scores, reflecting improved functional outcome.