Slipped Upper Femoral Epiphysis. S.U.F.E.

The condition of slipped upper femoral epiphysis affects adolescents. It is the most common of adolescent hip disorder. It tends to affect boys more than girls, with an approximate ratio of 3:1. Obesity as well as growth spurts are considered to be risk factors. They are thought to be precursors to hormone abnormalities resulting in this hip condition.

The problem affects the growth plates near to the end of the bone. These area also known as EPIPHYSEAL PLATES and is where growth of the bone occurs.

Symptoms can vary from minimal pain in the knee area to severe pain in the hips, sufficient to make walking intolerable. The pain pattern does not always mirror the severity of the condition however. X rays can reveal variations from a widened epiphyseal plate to a marked displacement of the femoral head, with associated loss of hip movement and abnormal gait (walking pattern).

Management is surgical insertion of screws to fix the femoral heads and prevent further slippage. Rehabilitation of movement in the hip joint together with relevant muscle strength work and gait (walking ) re-education is advisable. Outcomes are normally good providing the condition is diagnosed and treated early enough.

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