Delay in Diagnosis – Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (SCFE)

Often occurring without a specific injury/trauma or associated with a minor injury, slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is one of the most common adolescent hip disorders and represents a unique type of instability of the proximal femoral growth plate. It usually happens around puberty between the ages of 11 and 17 years.

Your child will complain of pain in either the hip or the knee. They may have had mild pain for a couple of months (gradual slip) or suddenly have pain (acute slip). The pain will limit their movement and cause them to limp.

Untreated SCFE tends to progress, with increasing risk of hip deformity and osteoarthritis. Hence early diagnosis and treatment is essential for good long-term results.

This condition can lead to permanent disability if not detected early enough. We have a register of experienced orthopaedic surgeons on hand whom we can approach to comment upon the standard of care your child received whilst in hospital. If you feel your child has suffered as a result of failure of your GP to refer him/her to hospital soon enough, we also have GP experts whom we approach to provide comment upon your case – There are time limits on claims such as these so don’t delay – telephone and speak to one of our clinical negligence team today on 01633 244233, or contact us here.