Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (SCFE)

Overview

This is a problem with the head of the femur in growing children. With this condition, the ball-like head slips out of place in the hip socket. It moves down and back. This slip happens at the femur's neck, along a growth plate. That's where new bone develops. Growth plates are weaker than the surrounding bone.

Causes

We aren't sure what causes this condition. It affects pre-teens and teens who haven't finished growing. It can happen over time. It can also happen after a fall or other injury. It's most common in boys. Being very overweight raises your risk. So does a family history. And, it's more common in people who have an endocrine disorder or a metabolic disorder. Some people who develop this in one hip go on to develop it in the other.

Symptoms

Symptoms depend on how bad the slip is. You may feel pain in your groin, hip, thigh and knee. It hurts more when you are active. You may limp. If your slip is severe, you may not be able to bear any weight on your hip. Your affected leg may look shorter than the healthy one, and it may turn outward.

Treatment

This condition is treated with surgery. The ball is stabilized with one or more screws. Your surgeon may recommend treating both hips if the other side is at risk too.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.