Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is an unusual disorder of the adolescent hip. The condition is affects the hip in teenagers between the ages of 12 and 16. A slipped capital femoral epiphysis occurs when the upper end of the thigh bone (femur) slips at the area where the bone is growing (growth plate or physis) and does not fit in the hip socket correctly. An epiphysis is an area at the end of a long bone that is separated from the main part of the bone by the physeal plate (growth plate). In this condition, a displacement occurs in the upper epiphysis while the bone is still growing. SCFE typically occurs just after the onset of puberty, frequently in overweight and slightly skeletally immature boys. It is often seen in children in whom puberty is delayed.



Girls who present are slightly younger than boys who present, and the condition is never seen in children who have a closed growth plate. African American children are affected slightly more often than others. SCFE occurs in approximately two out of 100,000 children and is two to five times more likely to occur in boys than girls. In most cases, slipping of the epiphysis is a slow and gradual process. However, it may occur suddenly and be associated with a minor fall or trauma. Symptoms vary in severity and speed of progression. Symptoms of SCFE typically include pain in the hip that is aggravated by activity. Sometimes teens will also experience pain in the groin, thigh, or knee area. The symptoms of SCFE may resemble other conditions or medical problems of the hip.

The goal of treatment for a slipped capital femoral epiphysis is to prevent further slippage and reduce complications of the condition. The most common treatment of SCFE is called "in-situ fixation." With this treatment, the bone is held in place with a single central screw. This screw keeps the thigh bone from slipping and will close the growth plate. The results of this treatment are good. Surgery to stabilize the bone with pins or screws will prevent further slippage or displacement of the ball of the hip joint. Other surgical treatments (including in-situ fixation with more than one screw) are used less often. Weight control for obese children may be helpful. Many cases are not preventable. Physical therapy (following surgery, to help strengthen the hip and leg muscles) is also helful against slipped capital.

Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis Treatment and Prevention Tips

1. The most common treatment of SCFE is "in-situ fixation."

2. Surgery is usually the treatment of choice.

3. Weight control for obese children may be helpful.

4. Physical therapy is also helful against slipped capital.

5. Your opinion or preference.