If your dog has hip problems, your vet may suggest FHO surgery. FHO, short for femoral head ostectomy, can help your dog regain pain-free movement in a hip that’s been damaged by injury or disease.
FHO in dogs addresses a range of common conditions, including hip dysplasia, Legg-Perthes disease, and even severe arthritis. These conditions cause pain and limit mobility, drastically reducing a dog’s quality of life. FHO surgery removes the head of the femur, eliminating the bone-on-bone contact that causes pain.
This guide is designed to provide dog owners with a detailed understanding of FHO surgery, from determining if your dog is a good candidate to the recovery process and long-term outlook.
What is FHO surgery?
FHO, or femoral head ostectomy, involves removing the “ball” of the hip’s ball-and-socket joint. This ball is actually the head of the femur, or thigh bone.
By removing the femoral head, the surgeon eliminates the painful bone-on-bone contact within the joint.
After surgery, scar tissue develops in the space where the femoral head used to be. Over time, this scar tissue forms a kind of cushion between the femur and the hip socket. This “false joint” allows the dog to move its leg with significantly less pain.
The goal of FHO surgery is always to get rid of pain and restore mobility.
Why is FHO performed?
FHO is typically recommended when other treatments, such as medications or less invasive surgeries, haven’t been effective in relieving pain and restoring function. The goal of FHO is to create a false joint that’s pain-free, allowing the dog to move more comfortably.
Common hip conditions leading to FHO
- Hip dysplasia: This genetic condition causes the hip joint to develop abnormally, which leads to instability and, often, arthritis.
- Legg-Perthes disease: This condition causes the top of the femur (femoral head) to weaken and collapse due to a lack of blood supply.
- Hip luxation or dislocation: The top of the femur can become displaced from the hip socket due to trauma.
- Severe arthritis: FHO may be considered when arthritis in the hip joint becomes severe.
- Fractures of the femoral head: Certain fractures of the femoral head or neck may require FHO.
Is My Dog a Good Candidate for FHO?
FHO is most often recommended for small to medium-sized dogs, typically those weighing less than 50 pounds. Smaller dogs tend to do better because their muscles don’t have to support as much weight after the surgery.
Activity level also plays a role. Active dogs often have better outcomes because they rebuild their muscle mass more easily.
While FHO is more common in smaller dogs, larger dogs may still be considered in certain situations.
Ultimately, your vet will need to examine your dog to determine if FHO is the right choice. They’ll consider your dog’s size, activity level, and the specific details of their condition.
Signs That Your Dog May Have Hip Issues
If your dog is experiencing hip pain, you might notice:
- Limping, especially after activity
- Stiffness, particularly after resting or sleeping
- A reluctance to run, jump, or play
- A “bunny hopping” gait, where they move both hind legs at the same time
- Pain when you touch their hips
What to expect on the day of surgery
If you and your vet decide that an FHO is the right option, here’s a general idea of what to expect when you bring your dog in for surgery:
- Pre-operative Prep: The veterinary team will perform a physical exam and run bloodwork to make sure your dog is healthy enough for anesthesia.
- Anesthesia: The surgery is performed while your dog is under general anesthesia.
- Surgical Procedure: The surgeon will remove the head of the femur.
- Post-operative Monitoring: The veterinary team will carefully monitor your dog as they recover from the anesthesia.
Post-Operative Care and Recovery
After FHO surgery, your dog will need careful monitoring and a structured rehabilitation program to ensure a full recovery. Here’s what you can expect:
Phase 1: Initial Recovery (Weeks 1-2)
The first couple of weeks are all about rest and pain management.
- Pain Management: Your vet will prescribe pain medication to keep your dog comfortable. Be sure to administer it as directed.
- Restricted Activity: Keep your dog confined to a small space, like a crate or small room, to limit movement. No running, jumping, or playing allowed!
- Wound Care: Keep a close eye on the incision site for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge. Contact your vet if you notice anything unusual.
- Passive Range of Motion (PROM) Exercises: Gently move your dog’s leg through its range of motion, as instructed by your veterinarian. This helps prevent stiffness and promotes circulation.
Phase 2: Gradual Rehabilitation (Weeks 3-6)
This phase involves slowly reintroducing activity and building strength.
- Controlled Leash Walks: Start with short, controlled walks on a leash and gradually increase the duration as your dog tolerates it.
- Physical Therapy: Consider working with a veterinary physical therapist to help rebuild muscle strength and improve range of motion. They can teach you specific exercises to do at home.
- Continued Pain Management: Continue to give pain medication as needed and as directed by your veterinarian.
- Gradual Increase in Activity: Slowly increase your dog’s activity levels as they tolerate it, but avoid strenuous activities like running or jumping until your vet gives the okay.
What to expect after FHO surgery
After FHO surgery, most dogs experience a noticeable decrease in pain and an increase in mobility.
However, successful recovery depends on consistent post-operative care and rehabilitation exercises. Your vet will give you a plan to follow, and it’s important to stick to it.
While some dogs may develop a slightly different way of walking, many are able to get back to near-normal activity levels.
If you have any concerns about your dog’s recovery after FHO surgery, always consult with your veterinarian.
Conclusion
For dogs with specific hip problems, FHO surgery can be a great option. It can reduce pain and improve your dog’s mobility.
To find out if FHO is right for your dog, talk with your veterinarian. Together, you can decide on the best course of action and create a treatment and recovery plan that meets your dog’s individual needs.