Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysitis (SCFE) can be a challenge to diagnose and to manage. As a result a number of complications may occur.
Complications:
(1) instability if the epiphysis and metaphysis separate with pain and altered gait
(2) avascular necrosis (due to compromise of vessels in the epiphysis if the epiphysis separates from the metaphysis)
(3) early-onset osteoarthritis
(4) shortening of the femoral neck with femoral-acetabular impingement
(5) chondrolysis
The risk of avascular necrosis is increased during the “unsafe window” during the period from 24 hours to 7 days after symptom onset.
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Specialty: Surgery, orthopedic
