SLIPPED CAPITAL FEMORAL EPIPHYSIS (SCFE)

Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (SCFE) is the most prevalent hip issue in adolescent patients. It is an immature hip condition characterized by anatomic disruption of the proximal femoral physis. The epiphysis is displaced posteriorly through the hypertrophic zone, whereas the metaphysis moves anteriorly and superiorly. The damaged hip suffers from discomfort, stiffness, and instability.

SCFE, however, may be treated and problems avoided or reduced if detected early. In most situations, surgery is required to stabilize the hip and keep the problem from worsening.

TYPES

Slipped capital femoral epiphysis SCFEs are classified into two types: stable and unstable.

  • Stable SCFE: Your youngster still can walk with this type. They will often walk with a stoop that appears and disappears. It worsens with exercise and improves with relaxation. Stable SCFE may induce hips, pelvic, or knees discomfort or stiffness.
  • Unstable SCFE: This is the most extreme type. Your youngster will be unable to hold the weight on the damaged limb. This type occurs more abruptly and is much more uncomfortable. It has the potential to develop into far more serious issues.

SYMPTOMS

The following symptoms may indicate a slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE):

  • Pain in the hips, groin, or around the knees 
  • One leg may seem shorter.
  • Outwardly bent foot or leg
  • Walking with a stutter.
  • Stiffness in the hip
  • Unable to put any weight on the leg 

Symptoms might last from a few weeks to 4 or 5 months before a diagnosis is made.

DIAGNOSIS

Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is identified with a medical examination that includes rotation of the afflicted limb, movement monitoring, and X-rays. If the diagnosis cannot be established with X-rays and your medical provider still feels your kid has SCFE, an MRI may be recommended. Your doctor may order blood testing to check out other medical issues.

TREATMENT

Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE)  is generally treated with surgery to fix the slipping growth plate. However, even before the operation, the physician will encourage resting and the use of crutches to avoid placing pressure on the injured limb. Many physicians recommend admitting the patient as quickly as SCFE is detected so that the patient can relax and the surgery can be performed as soon as feasible.

Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) treatment is done under general anesthesia (when a patient is completely asleep). The surgeons will create a small incision near the hip, then insert a metal screw through bones and across the growth plate to lock it in place, using a fluoroscope, a piece of specialized X-ray equipment that generates a realistic hip scenario on a TV screen as a guide. The screw is inserted deep into the bone and is not felt by the patient after the operation.

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