What is the recommended treatment for slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE)?

The recommended treatment for slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is surgical pinning of the slipped epiphysis. This condition typically presents in adolescents, where the femoral head becomes displaced due to slippage at the growth plate. Surgical intervention is crucial to stabilize the femoral head and prevent further slippage, which can lead to complications such as avascular necrosis or worsening hip function.

Surgical pinning allows for the proper alignment of the femoral head and can promote healing of the growth plate. The procedure involves inserting screws or pins to secure the epiphysis in its proper position. Early surgical intervention is essential, especially in cases where the slippage is significant or the patient is symptomatic.

Supporting the need for surgery, conservative management options such as physical therapy, observation, or monitoring may be appropriate in some mild cases if there is no significant slippage or symptoms. However, these options do not address the underlying issue and risk further complications. Joint replacement is not indicated for SCFE in the pediatric population, as it is a condition typically managed with surgical stabilization of the growth plate during the growth phase.