Slipped capital femoral epiphysis
Also written as: SCFE — Slipped capital femoral epiphysis
Displacement of the femoral head through the proximal femoral growth plate, most commonly affecting adolescents.
Full Definition
Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is a condition where the femoral head displaces through the proximal femoral physis, typically in a posterior and inferior direction. It most commonly affects overweight adolescents during periods of rapid growth. The condition is classified as stable or unstable based on the patient's ability to bear weight, and as mild, moderate, or severe based on the degree of slip angle measured on lateral hip radiographs. Early recognition is crucial to prevent complications such as avascular necrosis and chondrolysis.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify the degree of slip and stability classification.
In Context
- "Frog-leg lateral radiograph demonstrated moderate slipped capital femoral epiphysis with a slip angle of 35 degrees." — Emergency department evaluation