What to expect from fracture fixation surgery for slipped capital femoral epiphysis

Slipped capital femoral epiphysis affects the growth area near the top of the thigh bone. Treatment aims to secure the affected hip and protect its position; the surgeon’s plan depends on whether the slip is stable and on the condition of the hip joint. The operation is performed under anaesthesia, followed by a period of carefully controlled mobility.

Pain around the hip or thigh, stiffness, and difficulty walking can continue after surgery. The other hip may also be assessed because symptoms can be subtle there.

Use crutches or another mobility aid exactly as instructed. Do not put weight through the operated leg unless the surgeon allows it, and avoid running, jumping, twisting, and sports during protection. Keep the wound clean and attend imaging and clinical reviews.

Physiotherapy can address safe transfers, hip movement, strength, and walking technique. Return to school, work, cycling, driving, and sport is individual. Follow the plan even if pain improves, because the hip still needs assessment before higher loads are resumed.

Contact the surgical team for increasing wound redness, drainage, fever, escalating hip pain, or a new change in walking. Seek urgent help for sudden severe hip pain, inability to move the leg, a cold or numb foot, chest pain, or breathing difficulty.

Ask whether the slip is stable, how much weight the leg may take, whether the other hip needs review, and how the screw position will be monitored. Discuss crutch use, physiotherapy, school or work, wound care, future activity, and symptoms that require immediate attention.