Performed by Dr. Venkat Ram Thyalapalli at Dr Venkatram Thyalapalli
SCFE fixation is a surgical procedure used to treat slipped capital femoral epiphysis, a condition where the ball of the thighbone (femoral head) slips out of position at the growth plate. The procedure involves placing screws to hold the femoral head in its proper position and prevent further slipping. Dr Venkatram Thyalapalli performs this procedure in Kukatpally for children and adolescents with this hip condition.
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A step-by-step look at what happens during this procedure.
General anaesthesia is given so the child is asleep and feels no pain during the procedure.
The child is positioned on a specialised operating table, and X-ray equipment is positioned to provide real-time imaging during the procedure.
A small incision is made on the side of the hip to access the femoral head and neck.
Using X-ray guidance, one or more screws are carefully inserted through the femoral neck into the femoral head to hold it in its proper position.
The incision is closed with sutures or staples, and a sterile dressing is applied.
A structured, patient-first approach from first consultation to full recovery.
Dr Venkatram Thyalapalli reviews all imaging studies and examines the child to determine the severity of the slip and plan the most appropriate fixation approach.
Intraoperative X-ray guidance is used throughout the procedure to ensure accurate screw placement and proper alignment of the femoral head.
The surgical technique is tailored to the individual case, whether stable or unstable SCFE, with careful attention to screw position to avoid complications.
After surgery, the child is monitored in the recovery area, and a structured rehabilitation plan is outlined based on the type of slip and individual healing progress.
What to expect at each stage of your recovery journey.
The child remains in the hospital for observation, pain management, and initial mobility assessment. Crutches or a walker are typically needed, and weight-bearing restrictions are explained. Timelines vary based on whether the slip was stable or unstable.
During the first 6-8 weeks, the child uses crutches and follows weight-bearing restrictions as directed. Physical therapy may begin to maintain range of motion. Regular follow-up visits and X-rays monitor healing and screw position.
As healing progresses and X-rays show improvement, weight-bearing is gradually increased. Strengthening exercises are introduced, and the child transitions from crutches to full weight-bearing. Individual instructions from the clinical team take priority over general timelines.
The procedure aims to prevent further slipping of the femoral head and stabilise the hip joint. It does not reverse the slip that has already occurred, and some residual deformity may remain.
Many children experience relief from hip or groin pain after healing and can return to age-appropriate activities. However, some may have ongoing stiffness or limited range of motion.
Early fixation may help reduce the risk of complications such as avascular necrosis or progressive deformity. However, some children may still develop arthritis or other hip problems in the future, particularly if complications occur.
In some cases, additional surgeries may be needed, such as screw removal after growth plate closure or corrective osteotomy if significant deformity affects hip function.
The right choice depends on your diagnosis, risks and circumstances — discussed with you at your consultation.
In very rare, borderline cases, close observation with restricted activity might be considered. However, most cases of SCFE require surgical fixation because the condition typically progresses without treatment, leading to further slipping and complications.
When one hip has SCFE, there is a risk that the opposite hip may also slip. In some cases, preventive fixation of the unaffected hip may be discussed, depending on risk factors and individual circumstances.
For cases with severe slip or residual deformity after fixation, a corrective osteotomy (bone reshaping surgery) might be considered later to improve hip alignment and function. This is typically a more complex procedure reserved for specific situations.
Let's clear up some of the most common myths about scfe fixation.
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Consult Venkat Ram Thyalapalli for SCFE Fixation at any of these 2 centres — pick the one nearest you.
