title: Orthopedic pitfalls in the ED: slipped capital femoral epiphysis.
abstract: Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE), though a relatively common disorder, is frequently missed on initial presentation. Symptoms can be vague, the physical examination unrevealing, and radiographic abnormalities subtle. Prompt diagnosis of SCFE is important, however, to improve clinical outcome. The emergency physician needs to remain vigilant for this diagnosis to avoid this orthopedic pitfall. This article examines the clinical presentation, diagnostic techniques, and management options applicable to the emergency physician in the treatment of SCFE.
authors.affiliation: Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA, USA.
authors.forename: Andrew D
authors.initials: AD
authors.lastname: Perron
authors.forename: Mark D
authors.initials: MD
authors.lastname: Miller
authors.forename: William J
authors.initials: WJ
authors.lastname: Brady
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D017677:Age Distribution; D002648:Child; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004638:Emergency Treatment / Q000379:methods*; D004839:Epiphyses, Slipped / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D005270:Femur Head; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D008297:Male; D009765:Obesity / Q000150:complications; D009985:Orthopedics / Q000379:methods*; D010808:Physical Examination; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D012307:Risk Factors; D012399:Rotation; D014143:Traction; D016896:Treatment Outcome