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Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE)
FRACTURE THROUGH THE GROWTH PLATE RESULTING IN SLIPPAGE OF THE OVERLAYING END OF THE FEMUR
If your child experiences hip problems they may have SCFE. Our paediatric experts can make a diagnosis and treat them
About SCFE
SCFE is a hip condition that can be experienced by adolescents. This occurs when the ball that rests at the top of the femur (thighbone) moves backwards from the neck of the bone. It can occur as a result of growth spurts, a fall/trauma or excessive weight issues. Your child's consultant can assess them and determine whether surgery may be required.
Need to know
Symptoms of SCFE include:
- Sudden pain resultant from a fall
- External rather than internal rotation of you child's affected leg
- Inability to walk freely
- The affected leg may appear shorter than the other
Your child's consultant will discuss their symptoms with you to help make a diagnosis. They will carry out a physical examination. This is to assess if pain is experienced in your child's hip motion. Your consultant will also observe if there gait is irregular (the way they walk). An X-ray will help determine whether a procedure is needed.
The aim of surgery is to prevent further slipping of the femoral head (the ball that rests on the hip socket). Procedure options include:
- In situ fixation for stable SCFE (still able to walk freely). Your child's surgeon will make a small incision at the hip. A metal screw is inserted in the femoral head to stabilise it.
- In situ fixation in the opposite hip. This will take place if your child's other hip is at risk of SCFE.
- Open reduction for unstable SCFE (can't walk freely). An open incision is made at the hip. The femoral head is moved back to its natural position. One or two metal screws will be inserted to hold the bone in place.
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
David’s gym video shows him repeatedly pushing up to 100kg on a single leg press – not particularly unusual for this keen cyclist, former competitive squash player and all-round fitness enthusiast. What is unusual is that 52-year-old David had hip surgery just 12 weeks earlier.
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.