Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) Surgery is a common orthopedic surgery used to treat hip conditions in pets, particularly dogs and cats. Whether due to hip dysplasia, arthritis, or trauma, pets suffering from hip pain can regain mobility and live pain-free lives with FHO surgery. If you’re considering this procedure for your pet, understanding the benefits, recovery process, and when it’s recommended can help you make an informed decision.
What is Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) Surgery?
FHO surgery is a procedure in which the femoral head—the “ball” of the hip joint—is removed, allowing the body to form a false joint. This eliminates the painful bone-on-bone contact that occurs in damaged or diseased hip joints. According to VCA Animal Hospitals, FHO surgery is most commonly performed on pets with conditions such as:
- Hip dysplasia – A genetic condition causing instability in the hip joint.
- Severe arthritis – When cartilage wears away, causing chronic pain.
- Hip fractures or dislocations – Trauma-related injuries that cannot be repaired surgically.
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease – A condition affecting small-breed dogs, leading to hip joint degeneration.
At Florence Animal Hospital, we specialize in orthopedic procedures, including FHO surgery, to help pets regain mobility and improve their quality of life.
Benefits of FHO Surgery for Pets
FHO surgery is often recommended because it provides a permanent solution for hip pain while being more affordable than total hip replacement. Some of the key benefits include:
- Pain relief – Removes the damaged joint, eliminating discomfort.
- Restored mobility – Pets can walk, run, and play again after recovery.
- Cost-effective orthopedic surgery – Less expensive than other hip surgeries.
- Long-term success – Many pets resume normal activity levels with proper rehabilitation.
What to Expect Before, During, and After FHO Surgery
Before Surgery:
Your veterinarian will perform X-rays and a physical exam to determine if FHO surgery is the best option for your pet. Bloodwork may be required to ensure your pet is healthy enough for anesthesia.
During Surgery:
Under general anesthesia, the surgeon will remove the femoral head, allowing the body to form a new false joint. The procedure typically takes 1–2 hours, and pets are monitored closely for safety.
After Surgery:
Pain management medications will be prescribed to help with post-operative discomfort. Pets usually go home the same day or within 24 hours, with instructions for restricted movement.
Follow-up visits at Florence Animal Hospital will ensure proper healing.
Rehabilitation and Recovery After FHO Surgery
A successful recovery depends on proper rehabilitation, which helps pets rebuild muscle strength and adjust to their new joint structure. Some recommended rehabilitation methods include:
- Passive range-of-motion exercises – To prevent stiffness.
- Underwater treadmill therapy – Low-impact exercise to strengthen muscles.
- Gradual reintroduction of activity – Supervised walks to improve mobility.
For performance animals, such as working dogs, a customized rehabilitation plan may be necessary to restore full function.
Is FHO Surgery Right for Your Pet?
Prevention is always encouraged, but sometimes, no amount of prevention will stop an injury. Not all pets are ideal candidates for FHO surgery. Factors such as age, weight, activity level, and severity of the hip condition should be considered. Consulting a veterinarian is the best way to determine whether FHO surgery is the right solution for your pet’s needs.
At Florence Animal Hospital, we provide expert orthopedic surgery services in Florence and Hartsville, South Carolina. If your pet is experiencing hip pain, schedule a consultation with our team to explore treatment options and ensure a pain-free future for your companion.