SCFE
Also written as: SCFE — slipped capital femoral epiphysis
Slipped capital femoral epiphysis, a hip disorder in adolescents where the femoral head slips off the neck of the femur.
Full Definition
Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is the most common hip disorder affecting adolescents, typically occurring between ages 10-16. The condition involves displacement of the capital femoral epiphysis (growth plate) relative to the femoral neck, most commonly in a posterior and inferior direction. SCFE is classified as stable or unstable based on the patient's ability to bear weight, and as acute, chronic, or acute-on-chronic based on symptom duration. Risk factors include obesity, endocrine disorders, and male gender.
Usage
Usage note: Sometimes written as SUFE (slipped upper femoral epiphysis) in British literature. Always spell out on first use.
In Context
- "The adolescent presented with chronic SCFE and required in-situ pinning to prevent further slip progression." — operative report
- "Bilateral SCFE occurs in approximately 20-40% of cases, necessitating prophylactic pinning of the contralateral hip." — clinical guideline