Best Practice Case Studies-Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis

Pdf Summary

Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is a condition affecting the hip joint, mostly seen in older children and adolescents. It involves the slippage of the growth plate in the femoral head, akin to an ice cream slipping off a cone. This slippage can occur suddenly due to a fall or sports injury, or gradually without an apparent cause. <br /><br />Key risk factors include obesity, a family history of SCFE, certain endocrine conditions (like diabetes and thyroid disease), and the use of medications such as steroids. Symptoms typically involve hip pain, often affecting the groin, outer hip, and possibly extending to the thigh and knee. Affected individuals may also develop a limp.<br /><br />Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and x-rays. Treatment primarily involves surgery to stabilize the slipped bone. Prior to surgical intervention, rest and avoiding weight-bearing on the affected leg is recommended. For those with increased risk factors or age considerations, the unaffected hip may also receive preventive treatment.<br /><br />Preventive measures include weight loss for individuals who are overweight. Most children can return to sports roughly six months post-surgery, though those with severe cases may face restrictions from contact sports.<br /><br />The document is provided by the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine (AMSSM), a professional body focused on education, research, and comprehensive care in sports medicine. This organization comprises a range of sports medicine physicians, including those providing non-surgical care and serving as team physicians across various levels of sport, from youth to professional leagues and Olympic teams. For more resources or to find a sports medicine physician, individuals can visit the AMSSM website.

Meta Tag

Edition 3rd Edition

Related Case 3rd Edition, CASE 45

Topic Pediatric Issues

Keywords

3rd Edition, CASE 45

3rd Edition

Pediatric Issues

Slipped capital femoral epiphysis

hip joint

adolescents

growth plate

obesity

endocrine conditions

surgery

sports medicine

AMSSM

preventive measures