Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (1961)

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Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (SCFE)

What is SCFE?SCFE

The bone in the thigh is called the femur. The top of the femur is shaped like a ball and is called the epiphysis. It fits into a cup shaped pocket in the pelvis. When the ball slips out of the pocket, it is called Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (SCFE).

If the slip is severe, it can cause a lack of blood flow to the ball part of the thighbone. This can lead to permanent problems with hip movement. If left untreated, the ball can continue to slip.

This leads to decreased hip motion and increased joint stiffness and pain (degenerative joint disease).

SCFE is rare. When it does happen, it is most often seen in children age 10 to 16 years old. It is more common in boys than girls. SCFE is more common in African- American children and in children who are overweight. It can affect one hip or both hips.

What causes it?

The true cause of SCFE in not known. It may be caused by increased weight on the thighbone, a growth spurt or hormone changes in older children. It may also be caused by a twisting injury to the hip.

How does it affect my child?

There are three types of SCFE.

How is it treated?

Surgery may be needed to keep the thighbone from slipping any more. Surgery will help reduce damage to the hip joint. Without surgery, your child will have a greater risk of having arthritis in the hip. This could limit movement of the hip and cause pain later in life.
First, your child will have x-rays to see how severe the SCFE is. Surgery may be scheduled for the same day or as the x-rays. If the SCFE is severe, your child may need to be in the hospital to be in traction until the surgery can be done. After surgery, your child might stay overnight.
This is to be sure your child is comfortable and can walk with crutches before going home.

How is surgery done?

What restrictions will my child have after surgery?

What follow up care will my child need?

ALERT

Call your child’s doctor, nurse, or clinic if you have any questions or concerns or if your child has special health care needs that were not covered by this information.