Slipped capital femoral epiphysis

Alternative names:

femoral epiphysis - slipped

Definition:

A separation of the thigh bone (femur) at the upper growing end of the bone.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The epiphysis is at the ends of long bones. It is separated from the main part of the bone by the epiphyseal plate (growth plate). In this condition, a displacement occurs in the upper epiphysis while the bone is still growing. It is more common in boys, in children who are obese, and in children who grow rapidly. It occurs most often between the ages of 11 and 15.