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Slipped Upper Femoral Epiphysis (SUFE)

This is where the femoral head is displaced along the growth plate.


Risk factors - Male, 11-15 years, Obese, Afro-Caribbean


Complications - Chondrolysis, Avascular necrosis


Presentation

  • Typically presents during a growth spurt

  • Most have referred knee pain

  • Limp, worsened with activity

  • Restricted ROM


Investigations

  • XR

  • Bloods – CRP to exclude inflammatory causes of joint pain

Adolescent femoral head solution, radiographic image, sketch, care - Dr. Jochen Lengerke (https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Epilys.jpg)

Management

  • Surgery



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