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Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis, Pediatric

Craig J. Finlayson, MD Reviewed 10/2018
 


BASICS

DESCRIPTION

Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is displacement of the femoral head (epiphysis) relative to the femoral neck (metaphysis). 

EPIDEMIOLOGY

  • Most common adolescent hip disorder

  • Mal...

DIAGNOSIS

HISTORY

  • Pain in the affected hip, thigh, or knee

  • Limp

ALERT

Hip pain may be absent. Referred pain to the thigh or knee and/or limp may be the only presenting symptoms.

 
  • Occasional history of trau...

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

  • Prompt surgical consultation to minimize the risk of progressive slippage and associated complications

  • Protected weight bearing with crutches or bed rest pending surgical cons...

ONGOING CARE

FOLLOW-UP RECOMMENDATIONS

Patient Monitoring

Patients should be followed radiographically until physeal closure to ensure appropriate healing and to evaluate for contralateral slip. 

DIET

Pat...

ADDITIONAL READING

  • Bittersohl B, Hosalkar HS, Zilkens C, et al. Current concepts in management of slipped capital femoral epiphysis. Hip Int.  2015;25(2):104–114. [View Abstract on OvidInsights]

  • G...

CODES

ICD9

732.2 Nontraumatic slipped upper femoral epiphysis 

ICD10

  • M93.003 Unspecified slipped upper femoral epiphysis (nontraumatic), unspecified hip

  • M93.023 Chronic slipped upper femoral epiphysis (no...

FAQ

  • Q: Is surgical treatment necessary for SCFE?

  • A: Yes, without surgical stabilization of the physis, there may be progressive slippage and increasing deformity. A stable slip may also develop acute i...

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