Often radiographs may not show this as clearly as they do with this case study. Most SCFEs however, can be detected radiographically. The position of the femoral head epiphysis should resemble a cap over the physis. More subtle cases than this one, may just show a slight malpositioning of the epiphysis. Patients may present with symptoms ranging from non-existent to severe.
Some patients are able to ambulate without difficult while others are completely non weight bearing.
Management Management of the patient with SCFE begins with a surgical referral. Most of these patients will require internal fixation of the effected femoral capital epiphysis by orthopedic surgery. Initially these patients should be hospitalized and placed on bedrest. Limiting ambulation will prevent further slipping. Sometimes simple traction is used per the discretion of the surgeon.