Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (SCFE)

SCFE(Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis)

A disorder of hip joint during adolescent age group during a growth spurt. A painless stable mobile hip joint is necessary for all physical activities like walking, running, jumping. But slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is a hip condition that causes painful restrictions of movements with limp or even unable bear the weight. Timely diagnosis and appropriate intervention prevent possible complications and deformities.In slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) femur (thigh bone) head slips over neck results in a painful restriction of movements.

SYMPTOMS

Painful restriction of movements of hip, limp, unable to bear weight, and deformity are commonly seen symptoms. A child may experience intermittent pain in his groin, knee, thigh, or hip if he is suffering from mild or stable SCFE. On the other hand, symptoms of severe or unstable SCFE include a child experiencing pain suddenly, inability to walk or run, and the affected leg turning outward.

DIAGNOSIS

Pain in the hip/groin/knee during the growth years should be examined properly by an expert. Clinical examination is significantly important as it gives great help in making diagnoses. While diagnosing SCFE, the orthopedic checks if the child is finding it difficult to move his leg or hip. A series of X-ray and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of the pelvis with both hips is also helpful.

TREATMENT

It’s a surgical emergency and needed emergency surgery. However, we recommend the child to take adequate rest, use crutches, and avoid putting pressure on the affected leg to prevent the growth plate from slipping further. The experienced orthopedic even advise the parents to get the child admitted to the hospital and perform the surgery without any delay.

Causes

Commonly seen in obese and hyperactive children with some endocrinal disorders. During growth spurt slip occurs at the weakest zone of the growth plate.

Recovery

Once the surgery is over, the child can walk with crutches after a few days. Post op physiotherapy and exercises are recommended for faster recovery.