Essay Sample on Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis

Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is a hip condition that is often associated with the young generation who are still growing (Leunig et al., 2010). Notably, for some uncertain reasons, the ball located at the femur or the thigh bone slips from the neck borne in a reverse direction, which often translates to pain, instability, stiffness, and other hip-related concerns. Moreover, the condition develops over time gradually and affects both genders and has been revealed by medical professionals that, it is the most common type of hip disorder among adolescents (Leunig et al., 2010). Therefore, the paper aims to analyze the concept of SCFE, including its description, causes, symptoms, medical examinations, recovery plans, and possible remedies.

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Description, Causes, Symptoms and Remedies

SCFE often develops during a period of increased growth, especially after puberty, and in male children, it occurs after attaining 10 years while in girls after 12 years of age (Leunig et al., 2010). However, there is no guarantee to these facts since in some instances; the disorder occurs suddenly, particularly after a minor trauma. As Leunig et al (2010) states, scientists have not ascertained the main cause of SCFE, and thus, it is not known. The condition occurs mainly during a child's growth and development and has been revealed to be most common among male teens at around 67% than their female counterparts at 33% (Leunig, et al., 2010). Some of the risk factors that may make a child vulnerable to this condition include excess weight above 95% and family history. Moreover, other risk factor includes metabolic disorder, including hyperthyroidism which affects the ages between 10 to 16 (Leunig et al., 2010).

The symptom of SCFE varies according to the severity of the disorder. For instance, a patient having Mild, stable SCFE will often complain of serious pain on the groin, knee, hip, and thigh for several months (Lehmann et al., 2006). Consequently, the pain increases with an increase in activities making the victim walk in pain after a conclusive activity. Therefore, the major symptoms of the disorder include sudden illness, especially after an injury or fall, difficulty in walking, extension rotation, and a remarkable difference in the leg size and length (Lehmann et al., 2006). Therefore, the patent should seek his or her healthcare provider for examination after noticing these symptoms. Notably, the doctor would conduct such significant examinations, including physical examinations and X-rays. During the physical examination, the healthcare provider may ask such a question, including a patient's childhood general health and related medical history. At the same time, X-rays would help in the determination of images with dense structures such as joints and bones. The X-rays would be conducted in such places as the thigh, hip, pelvis from different angles to determine the diagnosis (Lehmann et al., 2006).

After the doctor's examination and assurance that the patient is experiencing SCFE, treatment programs would be on course. The primary objective of the treatment would be to prevents the displaced femoral head from further slipping, which is always accompanied by intense surgery. Notably, early diagnosis and treatment provide good opportunities for hip stabilization and eradication of further complications (Lehmann et al., 2006). Effective treatments are available but depend upon the severity of the condition. They include surgical procedures like In situ fixation and open reduction, especially among patients with unstable thighs and hips.

Conclusion

In conclusion, SCFE is a complicated disorder that, if not detected at early stages, can have severe consequences on the victim, including prolonged pain and hip dislocation. Though early detection from the symptoms can help in mitigating the probability of related complications, some of the patients would still experience problems. Therefore, individuals should engage in such preventive measures, including frequent check-ups from their care provider, engaging in sporting and physical activities, and early treatments in case of detection.

Reference

Leunig, M., Casillas, M. M., Hamlet, M., Herschel, O., Notzli, H., Slongo, T., & Ganz, R. (2010). Slipped capital femoral epiphysis: early mechanical damage to the acetabular cartilage by a prominent femoral metaphysis. Acta orthopaedica Scandinavica, 71(4), 370-375. DOI:10.1192/bjp.180.1.88

Lehmann, C. L., Arons, R. R., Loder, R. T., & Vitale, M. G. (2006). The epidemiology of slipped capital femoral epiphysis: an update. Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics, 26(3), 286-290. DOI:10.1192/bjp.180.1.88