Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis

What is SCFE?

Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (SCFE) is a condition in children and adolescents where the ball at the head of the femur (thigh bone) slips off the neck of the bone in a backward direction due to a weakness in the growth plate. It’s similar to ice cream slipping off the cone.

SCFE is considered an orthopedic emergency that needs early diagnosis and treatment to prevent permanent hip damage and restore mobility.

Key Facts About SCFE

• Occurs mostly during growth spurts, usually between ages 10 and 16
• More common in boys, children who are overweight, or those with hormonal imbalances
• Can affect one or both hips
• Delayed treatment can lead to chronic pain, hip deformity, and arthritis
• Requires surgical fixation to prevent further slippage

Causes of SCFE

SCFE is primarily linked to mechanical stress on a weakened growth plate, influenced by:

• Rapid growth during puberty
• Obesity or excess weight
• Endocrine disorders such as hypothyroidism or growth hormone abnormalities
• Genetic predisposition
• Prior hip injury or anatomical variations

Symptoms and Consequences

What Parents Might Notice:

• Limping or walking with the foot turned outward
• Pain in the hip, thigh, knee, or groin
• Limited hip movement or stiffness
• Shortening of the affected leg
• Sudden inability to walk (in severe cases)

• Progressive slippage of the femoral head
• Hip deformity and permanent joint damage
• Avascular necrosis (loss of blood supply to the femoral head)
• Early-onset hip arthritis and lifelong mobility issues

SCFE Treatment at Child OrthoCare

At Child OrthoCare, under the expert care of Dr. Nargesh Agrawal, we provide urgent and comprehensive treatment for SCFE to protect your child’s hip health.

1. Early Diagnosis and Imaging:

• Thorough clinical examination
• X-rays to confirm slippage
• MRI in select cases to detect early changes or complications

In-situ pinning: A metal screw is inserted to hold the femoral head in place and stop further slippage

• Minimally invasive procedure with rapid recovery
• In severe cases, a corrective osteotomy may be required

• Protected weight-bearing with crutches or walker
• Physiotherapy to regain strength and mobility
• Gradual return to daily activities and sports

• Regular X-rays to monitor healing
• Observation of the opposite hip, which may also be at risk
• Hormonal and metabolic screening if indicated

Did You Know?

• SCFE can mimic knee pain, so hip problems are sometimes overlooked
• In up to 40% of cases, both hips can be affected
• Children with endocrine disorders or rapid growth should be monitored closely for hip pain
• Early treatment leads to excellent long-term function

Myths and Facts About SCFE

Myth: It’s just growing pains.
Fact: Persistent limp or leg pain needs evaluation—SCFE can be serious.

Myth: Rest will fix it.
Fact: SCFE requires surgical intervention to prevent further damage.

Myth: Surgery is risky for children.
Fact: In-situ pinning is a safe and effective procedure with minimal complications.

Myth: The condition will resolve with age.
Fact: Untreated SCFE leads to permanent deformity and hip arthritis.