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Height and Weight Linked to Bilateral Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis

Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is a problem for today's overweight teenagers. In this condition, the growth center of the hip (the capital femoral epiphysis) actually slips backwards on the top of the femur (the thighbone). Predicting which children will have this problem in both hips is the subject of this study.

Fifty-four (54) children with SCFE were measured for height and weight. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated from these two measures. The children were followed until bone growth and closure of the growth plates was completed.

The authors report a much greater BMI in children who progressed from having SCFE in one hip to both hips. Half of the children who had bilateral SCFE by the end of the study showed involvement of both hips to start. All children with a BMI more than 35 kg/m2 went on to develop bilateral SCFE. Normal BMI ranges from 20 to 24.9. Overweight is considered 25 to 29.9. Obese is 30 to 40. Anything over 40 is severely obese.

The authors conclude that obese and especially severely obese children are at risk for SCFE affecting both hips.

References: Nitin N. Bhatia, MD, et al. Body Mass Index in Patients with Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis. In Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics. March/April 2006. Vol. 26. No. 2. Pp. 197-199.

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