Also known as a femoral head and neck excision (FHNE), Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) is a surgical procedure performed on dogs and cats to alleviate pain and increase mobility in the hip joint. The procedure involves the removal of the head of the femur bone, which forms the ball-and-socket joint of the hip.
Why Is FHO Surgery Performed?
FHO surgery is typically recommended for pets with hip dysplasia, a condition in which the hip joint does not develop properly and can lead to arthritis and pain. The procedure can also be performed in cases of traumatic injury to the hip joint, such as fractures or dislocations, or in cases where other treatments have failed to relieve pain and restore mobility.
What Happens During FHO Surgery?
FHO surgery is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon will make an incision along the thigh to access the hip joint. The head (along with the neck) of the femur is then removed, leaving a smooth surface at the end of the femur. The surrounding muscles and tissues will adapt to support the joint and provide stability.
After the surgery, your pet will need to rest and limit activity for several weeks to allow for healing. Physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises will also be recommended to help your pet regain strength and mobility in the affected leg.
What Are the Risks and Complications of FHO Surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks and potential complications associated with FHO surgery. These may include:
Infection at the surgical site
Contracture of the joint – This is why physical therapy is so important post op
Damage to surrounding tissues or nerves
Your veterinarian will discuss these risks with you and help you determine if FHO surgery is the best option for your pet.
What Is the Prognosis for Pets Who Undergo FHO Surgery?
Many pets experience significant improvement in pain and mobility after FHO surgery. While some pets may experience a slight decrease in range of motion in the affected hip, they can typically live comfortable and active lives with the help of physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises. It has been shown that smaller and younger pets have better outcomes after FHO than their older, larger counterparts. It is important to follow your veterinarian's post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure your pet has the best chance of a successful outcome.
In conclusion, Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) surgery is a common procedure performed in veterinary medicine to alleviate pain and improve mobility in pets with hip dysplasia or other hip joint issues. While the procedure does carry some minor risks, many pets can experience significant improvement in their quality of life after FHO surgery. If you think your pet may benefit from FHO surgery, talk to your veterinarian about whether this procedure is a good option for your pet. In the event you have a large breed dog with hip dysplasia or hip trauma a Total Hip Replacement may be recommended instead. We take the circumstances of each individual patient and pet owner into consideration when making surgical recommendations.
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