As pet owners, we want nothing more than to see our dogs live happy, active, and pain-free lives. For some dogs, conditions affecting the hip joint—such as hip dysplasia, fractures, or severe arthritis—can lead to chronic discomfort and limit their ability to enjoy the things they love. Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) surgery is a commonly recommended procedure that offers relief from hip pain and can restore your dog’s mobility.
This guide explains what FHO surgery in dogs involves, when it may be recommended, and what you can expect throughout the process. Understanding this treatment option can help you make the best decision for your beloved companion.
What is Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) and How Does It Work?
Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) surgery is a procedure designed to relieve pain in the hip joint. This surgery involves removing the femoral head, which is the ball-shaped part of the femur (thigh bone) that fits into the hip socket. When this part of the joint becomes damaged—whether by disease, injury or wear—it can lead to significant discomfort.
By removing the femoral head, the bone-on-bone contact causing pain is eliminated. Instead of a traditional joint, the body naturally forms a “false joint” made up of scar tissue and surrounding soft tissues. This new structure cushions the area and allows your dog to regain movement without the painful friction of a damaged joint.
FHO surgery is often an option when other treatments, like medication or physical therapy, are no longer effective. Unlike hip replacement surgery, FHO doesn’t involve implants, which can make it more accessible for many families.
Indications for FHO Surgery
Femoral Head Ostectomy in dogs is commonly performed to address a variety of hip-related conditions. Some of the most frequent reasons for this surgery include:
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a genetic condition in which the hip joint doesn’t form correctly, leading to instability, pain, and eventual arthritis. For dogs with severe symptoms, surgery for hip dysplasia can provide lasting relief when other treatments fail.
Fractures of the Femoral Head
In cases of trauma, such as falls or accidents, the femoral head may fracture. If the fracture cannot heal properly, removal of the femoral head may be necessary to restore comfort and mobility.
Severe Arthritis or Joint Degeneration
Over time, arthritis or joint degeneration can result in chronic pain that affects a dog’s quality of life. FHO surgery can offer a way to relieve this discomfort, allowing your dog to move more freely and enjoy everyday activities.
The Benefits of FHO Surgery
FHO surgery is often life-changing for dogs struggling with hip pain. Some of the most notable benefits include pain relief, improved mobility, and reduces the need for implants:
Pain Relief
The primary goal of FHO surgery is to eliminate the source of pain. By removing the damaged portion of the hip joint, your dog can experience relief and enjoy a more comfortable life.
Improved Mobility
After recovery, most dogs are able to walk, run, and play again without the limitations caused by hip pain. Although high-impact activities might still be limited, many dogs regain the ability to enjoy a full range of normal activities.
No Need for Implants
Unlike total hip replacement, FHO surgery for dogs doesn’t require artificial joint components. This makes it a simpler and more cost-effective option for many pet owners while still providing excellent results.
Accessibility
FHO surgery can often be performed on dogs of various sizes and ages, although smaller and medium-sized dogs tend to recover most successfully.
Potential Risks and Complications
While femoral head excision surgery in dogs is generally safe and effective, it’s important to be aware of potential risks, as with any surgical procedure. Your veterinarian will discuss these risks with you to ensure that you feel confident and informed before proceeding with the surgery.
When is FHO Surgery Not Recommended?
Although FHO surgery is a great solution for many dogs, it’s not suitable in all situations. Some scenarios where FHO may not be recommended include:
- Large or Heavy Dogs: The surgery tends to work best for small to medium-sized dogs. Larger dogs may experience less favorable outcomes due to the increased weight on the false joint.
- Mild Cases: If your dog’s hip condition is mild and manageable through medication, weight management, or physical therapy, surgery might not be necessary.
- Underlying Health Concerns: Dogs with significant health problems or advanced age may not tolerate surgery as well, and other options may be explored.
Your veterinarian will assess your dog’s unique situation to help determine whether FHO surgery is the right choice.
What to Expect After FHO Surgery
Recovery from FHO surgery requires time, patience, and a commitment to aftercare. Here’s what you can expect:
Pain Management
Your veterinarian will provide medications to manage any post-surgical discomfort. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions carefully.
Restricted Activity
In the initial weeks following surgery, your dog will need to rest and avoid jumping or running. Crate rest or confinement in a small, quiet space can help prevent overexertion.
Physical Therapy
Rehabilitation exercises are often a key part of recovery and improve the femoral head ostectomy success rate for dogs. These activities, guided by your veterinarian, help strengthen the muscles around the hip and improve mobility over time.
Weight Management
Keeping your dog at a healthy weight is essential to reduce stress on their joints. This not only aids in recovery but also helps prevent future complications.
With proper care and support, most dogs recover well from FHO surgery and are able to lead active, comfortable lives. For more in depth information about the recovery process after FHO surgery please see our FHO post op recovery guide.
Conclusion
Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) surgery is a compassionate and effective solution for dogs struggling with chronic hip pain. By removing the damaged femoral head, this procedure can relieve pain, restore mobility, and improve your dog’s overall quality of life. While FHO or canine hip dysplasia surgery isn’t the right choice for every dog, it has helped countless pets regain their ability to move freely and enjoy their favorite activities.
If your dog is experiencing hip pain or has been diagnosed with a condition like hip dysplasia or severe arthritis, talk to us about whether FHO surgery might be the right option. Together, you can develop a care plan that meets your dog’s unique needs and ensures they have the best chance at a happy, active future.
Works Cited
Laura E. Peycke DVM, M. (2023) Femoral Head & Neck Ostectomy, Clinician’s Brief. Available at: https://www.cliniciansbrief.com/article/femoral-head-neck-ostectomy (Accessed: 05 February 2025).
