Slipped capital femoral epiphysis

SCFE is one of the most potentially damaging conditions of the adolescent hip. The onset may be associated with minor trauma but is often insidious and may present as vague thigh or knee pain. The lateral radiograph is the most sensitive view for detection of a low-grade slip. The contralateral hip must be examined carefully as there may be bilateral disease with the pain and disability of the presenting side masking the symptoms of less involved hip. SCFE is occasionally associated with other metabolic and endocrinologic disease, and these should be screened for in the history and physical examination. Once a slip begins, the hip remains at jeopardy for acute progression until the physeal plate closes. We recommend immediate surgical stabilization and prefer a cannulated screw system. Proper technique is critical to safe and reliable surgery. The most common complications, AVN and chondrolysis, are often related to technical errors and should be minimized with attention to detail.