Understanding FHO Surgery
When your pet struggles with hip pain or difficulty moving, it’s tough to watch. Whether due to injury, hip dysplasia, or arthritis, hip joint problems can significantly affect their quality of life. Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) surgery is a solution that restores mobility and relieves pain, helping pets regain their ability to move comfortably.
This guide covers everything you need to know about FHO surgery, from when it’s necessary to how it helps your pet recover.
How FHO Surgery Works
FHO surgery is a hip joint procedure where the femoral head (ball of the hip joint) is removed. Instead of replacing it, the surrounding muscles create a false joint that allows smoother movement without pain. This technique is especially effective for small and medium-sized dogs and cats, but some larger dogs may also benefit with proper rehabilitation.
When Is FHO Surgery Necessary?
A veterinarian may recommend FHO surgery for pets experiencing:
- Hip dysplasia – A genetic condition where the hip joint develops abnormally.
- Severe arthritis – Chronic joint inflammation that causes pain and stiffness.
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease – A condition that leads to the deterioration of the femoral head.
- Trauma or fractures – If the femoral head is damaged beyond repair.
- Hip dislocation – When the hip joint becomes unstable and doesn’t respond to other treatments.
The Benefits of FHO Surgery
FHO surgery offers long-term pain relief and helps pets return to their normal, active lives.
Why FHO Surgery Is a Good Option
Pain-Free Movement
One of the primary benefits of FHO surgery is that it removes the source of pain by eliminating the femoral head, which is the part of the joint that rubs against the hip socket. Without this bone-on-bone contact, pets experience significant pain relief and can gradually return to normal movement.
Cost-Effective
Compared to a total hip replacement, FHO surgery is a much more budget-friendly option while still providing excellent results. Many pet owners find it to be a practical solution for conditions like hip dysplasia, arthritis, or traumatic injuries that would otherwise require extensive treatment.
No Need for Implants
Since FHO surgery does not require an artificial joint replacement, there is no risk of implant rejection or failure over time. The body naturally forms a false joint using muscle and scar tissue, eliminating the possibility of metal implants wearing down or causing additional issues.
Quick Recovery
While every pet heals at a different pace, most begin to show improvement in mobility within weeks, and full recovery is typically achieved within three months. With proper rehabilitation, physical therapy, and consistent monitoring, pets can return to their normal active lifestyle without significant limitations.
The FHO Surgery Process: What to Expect
Pre-Surgery Preparation
Before surgery, your vet will conduct:
- X-rays and physical exams to confirm if FHO is the best treatment option for your pet’s condition. These tests help determine the severity of the issue and ensure there are no underlying health problems that could complicate the procedure.
- Blood tests to ensure your pet is healthy enough for anesthesia. This step is crucial in identifying any potential risks before surgery and preventing complications during the operation.
- Pain management planning to create a post-operative care plan tailored to your pet’s needs. This includes prescribing pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications to keep your pet comfortable during the recovery period.
How you can help:
- Keep your pet at a healthy weight to reduce joint stress before and after surgery.
- Prepare a quiet, comfortable recovery area where your pet can rest without the risk of excessive movement.
What Happens During Surgery?
FHO surgery is a straightforward orthopedic procedure that involves removing the femoral head to eliminate painful bone friction.
1. Your pet will be placed under anesthesia to ensure they remain still and pain-free throughout the surgery. The veterinarian will carefully monitor vital signs to ensure their safety.
2. The surgeon removes the femoral head, leaving the hip socket intact. This prevents future bone-to-bone contact, significantly reducing pain and discomfort.
3. Soft tissues and muscles create a functional “false joint.” Over time, the surrounding muscles develop enough strength to support movement, allowing the pet to regain mobility.
4. The incision is closed, and pain management medications are administered. After surgery, pets are monitored closely for any immediate reactions before being discharged for at-home recovery.
The procedure typically lasts one to two hours, and most pets go home the same day.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
First Two Weeks: Rest and Healing
- Keep your pet confined to a small, quiet space to prevent overexertion and unnecessary movement. Too much activity too soon can delay healing and increase discomfort.
- Monitor for swelling, infection, or discomfort at the incision site. Check the wound daily for any signs of redness, pus, or unusual swelling, and follow all post-operative care instructions provided by your vet.
- Give prescribed pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medication as directed. Your pet may feel sore in the first few days, so consistent medication administration will help keep them comfortable and aid in their recovery.
Weeks 3-6: Gradual Movement and Physical Therapy
- Begin gentle exercises like assisted standing and slow leash walks. While complete rest is necessary at first, controlled movement helps prevent stiffness and rebuilds muscle strength.
- Avoid jumping, running, or slippery surfaces to prevent strain. Pets may feel better than they actually are at this stage, so limiting risky movements is crucial to preventing re-injury.
- Consider hydrotherapy (water therapy) to build strength without added pressure. Swimming or underwater treadmill exercises provide low-impact conditioning that helps restore function while minimizing strain on the healing hip.
Weeks 6-12: Full Mobility and Strengthening
- Most pets regain near-normal function within three months. At this stage, they should be able to walk, climb, and even play again, though activity levels should still be monitored.
- Continue low-impact activities like short walks and controlled playtime. Gradually increasing exercise duration helps maintain mobility without causing excessive stress on the recovering joint.
- Regular vet check-ups ensure proper healing and no complications. Even if your pet seems fully recovered, periodic evaluations can help detect any subtle issues early and ensure long-term success.
Life After FHO Surgery
Will My Pet Walk Normally Again?
Most pets return to normal activity levels after recovery. While some may have a slightly altered gait, they can still walk, run, and play without significant limitations.
How to Help Your Pet Thrive Post-Surgery
Modify Their Environment
Providing non-slip mats, carpets, or rugs in high-traffic areas can help them avoid slipping and injuring themselves. If your pet is used to jumping onto furniture or climbing stairs, consider using ramps or pet steps to make movement easier and reduce unnecessary stress on their healing joints.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Excess weight increases the strain on your pet’s joints, muscles, and newly formed false joint, making recovery slower and potentially leading to complications. Work with your vet to create a balanced diet plan that meets your pet’s nutritional needs while maintaining an ideal weight.
Stick to Low-Impact Exercise
Exercise is crucial for rebuilding muscle strength and joint flexibility. Start with short, controlled leash walks on flat surfaces, avoiding any rough or uneven terrain that could cause strain. As your pet regains confidence and mobility, you can increase the duration and intensity of walks while ensuring they do not overexert themselves.
Schedule Follow-Up Vet Visits
Regular post-surgery checkups are essential to ensure proper healing and detect any complications such as infection, swelling, or abnormal gait development. Keeping track of your pet’s progress, behavior changes, and mobility improvements will help your vet make necessary adjustments to their recovery plan for the best long-term outcome.
Is FHO Surgery Right for Your Pet?
Every pet is different, and only a veterinarian can determine if FHO is the best option. If your pet is struggling with hip pain and mobility issues, early intervention can dramatically improve their quality of life.
Need Immediate Help? Contact Veterinary Emergency Centre
If your pets are in an emergency or if you have general inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact Veterinary Emergency Centre.
General Hotline: 2334-2334
24-Hour Emergency Hotline: 6828-6620
