Slipped upper femoral epiphysis

SummarySlipped upper femoral epiphysis is a common adolescent hip disorder. The classic image of the obese hypogonadal male child presenting with a limp is widely known; despite appearances few of these children demonstrate an endocrine disorder. Most are idiopathic, but some are associated with obesity, younger bone age, race and biomechanical factors. Historical treatments, such as spica casts, have been abandoned and in situ pinning is widely held to be the optimum treatment. The more severe slips frequently require osteotomy and may go on to require salvage surgery. This article presents a review of the aetiology, features and treatment options available.