Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 10, 2025.
Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is a hip condition that affects older children and teenagers. It occurs when the epiphysis (head) of the femur (thighbone) slips off the neck of the bone. This happens at the growth plate. The growth plate is a soft area of the bone that makes bones grow into their adult length and shape. It usually affects one side of the hip, but can affect both sides.
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DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Call your child's doctor if:
- Your child has severe pain.
- Your child cannot move his or her leg.
- You have questions or concerns about your child's condition or care.
Medicines:
Your child may need any of the following:
- Acetaminophen decreases pain and fever. It is available without a doctor's order. Ask how much to give your child and how often to give it. Follow directions. Read the labels of all other medicines your child uses to see if they also contain acetaminophen, or ask your child's doctor or pharmacist. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly.
- NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If your child takes blood thinner medicine, always ask if NSAIDs are safe for him or her. Always read the medicine label and follow directions. Do not give these medicines to children younger than 6 months without direction from a healthcare provider.
- Do not give aspirin to children younger than 18 years. Your child could develop Reye syndrome if he or she has the flu or a fever and takes aspirin. Reye syndrome can cause life-threatening brain and liver damage. Check your child's medicine labels for aspirin or salicylates.
- Give your child's medicine as directed. Contact your child's healthcare provider if you think the medicine is not working as expected. Tell the provider if your child is allergic to any medicine. Keep a current list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs your child takes. Include the amounts, and when, how, and why they are taken. Bring the list or the medicines in their containers to follow-up visits. Carry your child's medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Walking devices:
Your child may need to use a walker or crutches if he or she cannot put any weight on his or her leg. Your child may need to use a walking device until he or she has surgery and for a period of time after surgery.
Follow up with your child's doctor or orthopedist as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Further information
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