SLIPPED CAPITAL FEMORAL EPIPHYSIS (SCFE)

Overview

This disorder, which affects children between 10-15 years old, occurs when the head of the femur slips off the femoral neck. This misaligns the femur with the socket. In most cases, SCFE is a gradual process that occurs while the bones are still growing, but it can also occur suddenly. SCFE may develop in one or both hips.

Causes

Doctors don’t understand what causes this disorder. It most commonly affects overweight males. The shift usually occurs slowly and gradually during periods of accelerated growth. This type is called a stable SCFE. Another type, which develops suddenly because of trauma to the hip, is called unstable SCFE.

Symptoms

Symptoms of stable SCFE include stiffness, hip and knee pain, loss of full mobility, a limp, and, in severe cases, an inability to bear weight on the affected leg. An affected leg may also turn outward or appear shorter than a normal leg. Symptoms of unstable SCFE include severe pain and inability to move the damaged leg.

Treatment

SCFE is treated with surgery. One or more screws are inserted through the neck and head of the femur to realign and secure the ball and prevent further slipping.