Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis Treatment in Kansas City, MO

Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (SCFE) Specialist in Kansas City, MO, Lenexa, KS, and Independence, MO

What is Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis?

Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (SCFE) is a medical condition that commonly occurs in teens and adolescents, where the ball at the head of the femur (thighbone) slips off the neck of the bone in a backward direction. This slip happens through the growth plate (physis), which is a layer of cartilage near the end of the bone that is involved in the bone’s growth. SCFE is a type of hip disorder that can lead to pain and mobility issues.

The exact cause of SCFE is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to hormonal changes during puberty, obesity, and mechanical stress on the hip. There are risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing SCFE, such as obesity, a history of SCFE in the other hip, and certain endocrine disorders.

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What Are The Symptoms of Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis?

  • Hip pain, knee pain, or groin pain, which may be worsened by activity.
  • A limp or changes in the way the child walks.
  • Limited range of motion in the hip.Diagnosis of SCFE is typically made through physical examination and imaging tests, such as X-rays, which can show the displacement at the hip joint.

What is The Treatment for SCFE?

The primary treatment for Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (SCFE) is surgery. The goal of surgery is to stabilize the growth plate to prevent further slipping of the femoral head and to minimize the risk of complications. There are several surgical approaches, and the choice of procedure depends on the severity of the slip, whether it is stable or unstable, and the surgeon’s preference and expertise. The main types of surgical treatments include:

In situ fixation: This is the most common treatment for SCFE and involves placing a single screw across the growth plate to secure the head of the femur in place without attempting to correct the deformity.

Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF): In more severe cases or when the slip is unstable, an open reduction may be necessary. This surgery involves more extensive dissection to directly visualize and realign the femoral head before securing it with screws or pins.

Modified Dunn procedure: This is a more recent and technically demanding procedure used in severe or unstable slips. It involves a surgical dislocation of the hip to safely correct the deformity and fix the femur with screws.

Physical therapy is an essential part of the recovery process to regain strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the hip.

The choice of treatment is carefully considered based on individual factors, including the age of the patient, the severity of the slip, and any associated conditions.

Early diagnosis and treatment of SCFE are crucial to prevent complications, such as significant deformity, early-onset hip arthritis, and avascular necrosis (a condition where the bone tissue dies due to lack of blood supply).

Take the First Step Towards Exceptional Orthopedic Care in Kansas City

At Orthopedic Health of Kansas City, we’re dedicated to providing you with the highest quality of care, tailored to meet your unique needs. With three convenient locations across the Kansas City area, expert orthopedic support is always within reach. Discover our comprehensive services and start your journey to better health! Book an appointment today! We serve patients from Independence, MO, Lenexa, MO, and Kansas City, MO.