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Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO)

Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) is a surgical procedure used to alleviate severe pain caused by hip conditions such as dysplasia, arthritis, or trauma. By removing the femoral head (the ball of the hip joint), FHO eliminates bone-on-bone contact, reducing discomfort and improving mobility. While effective in many cases, FHO is considered a salvage procedure and is not expected to restore full function. Rehabilitation is essential for a successful outcome, and for pet owners seeking a more curative solution, Total Hip Replacement (THR) may be a better option, though it is more costly.

The hip joint is a ball-and-socket structure that enables smooth movement and weight-bearing. In severe cases of hip dysplasia, arthritis, or fractures, the joint becomes damaged, causing chronic pain and reduced mobility. FHO involves removing the femoral head and neck to eliminate painful contact within the joint. The surrounding muscles and soft tissues form a “false joint” that provides functional mobility, though not to the same level as a healthy hip. This procedure is typically reserved for pets where other treatment options are not feasible.

FHO is performed under general anesthesia and tailored to the pet’s size and condition:

Surgical Process:
The surgeon makes an incision near the hip, carefully removes the femoral head and neck, and smooths the bone edges to reduce irritation. The soft tissues and surrounding muscles provide support for the newly formed false joint.
Post-Surgical Considerations:
Unlike Total Hip Replacement, FHO does not require implants or hardware, making it a less invasive and more affordable option. However, the resulting joint lacks the stability and range of motion of a natural or prosthetic hip.
Outcome Expectations:
While FHO reduces pain and improves mobility, pets will not regain full function in the affected leg. Success heavily depends on proper post-operative rehabilitation.

FHO is suitable for small to medium-sized dogs and cats with severe hip pain or dysfunction caused by:

Advanced hip dysplasia.
Traumatic fractures of the femoral head or neck.
Severe arthritis unresponsive to medical management.

Large breed dogs may benefit less from FHO due to their size and weight, which can strain the false joint. In these cases, Total Hip Replacement [link] offers a more curative solution by fully restoring joint function, though it requires a larger financial investment.

If your pet is experiencing significant hip pain or lameness, schedule an evaluation with our surgical team. Diagnosis involves a physical examination and imaging, such as X-rays, to assess the severity of the hip damage.

After surgery, rehabilitation is critical for the success of FHO:

Rehabilitation Therapy: Physical therapy, including hydrotherapy and controlled exercises, helps pets adapt to the false joint, strengthen supporting muscles, and improve mobility.
Recovery Timeline: Pets typically begin to show improvement within weeks, but full recovery can take several months of consistent therapy.

For a more curative option, consider Total Hip Replacement, which restores joint function and offers long-term benefits. Our team can guide you in choosing the best approach for your pet’s needs and lifestyle.