Slipped Upper Femoral Epiphysis (SUFE)

Question 1

What is SUFE (slipped upper femoral epiphysis)?

Answer 1

Idiopathic fracture through femoral head / neck junction causing the head of the femur to slip

Question 2

What symptoms can SUFE (slipped upper femoral epiphysis) cause?

Answer 2

Groin pain, limping with possible leg shortening.

Question 3

What can SUFE (slipped upper femoral epiphysis) be eased by?

Answer 3

• Rest
• Hip external rotation.

Question 4

What age do patients have SUFE (slipped upper femoral epiphysis)?

Answer 4

age 11-14

Question 5

What are the main characteristics of SUFE?

Answer 5

• Limping or pain on weightbearing
• Pain in hip, knee or groin

Question 6

What are the potential consequences for a patient if a diagnosis of their SUFE is missed?

Answer 6

• Increasing hip pain
• Separation of the femoral head from the femoral neck
• Early hip replacement surgery
• Femoral head avascular necrosis