Final answer:
The most serious complication of Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis is avascular necrosis, characterized by hip or groin pain, stiffness, and a limp. Fractures within the hip joint can lead to deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, pneumonia, and increased morbidity and mortality, with substantial healthcare costs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most serious complication of Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (SCFE) is avascular necrosis (AVN), also known as osteonecrosis. This condition occurs when the blood supply to the femoral head is disrupted, leading to the death of bone tissue. The symptoms associated with AVN include pain in the groin or hip that may radiate to the knee, stiffness of the hip joint, and a limp.
Additional serious consequences following a fracture of the femoral neck within the capsule of the hip joint can lead to life-threatening complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), pneumonia, infection of pressure ulcers (bedsores), and urinary tract infections. These issues are a result of the immobility that occurs during the healing process, which can impair respiratory function, create conditions for blood clots, and increase susceptibility to infections. The healthcare costs and the increased rates of morbidity and mortality associated with these complications are substantial. Therefore, a hip fracture, particularly in elderly individuals, necessitates prompt and effective surgical treatment followed by careful management to avoid these severe complications.