A femoral head and neck osteotomy can sound like a scary procedure, but it’s a great option for some pets experiencing hip dysplasia.
Hip dysplasia is one of the most common orthopedic conditions seen in dogs and, less frequently, cats. This painful disorder occurs when the hip joint develops abnormally, leading to instability, arthritis, and difficulty moving. While some pets find relief through weight management, medications, and physical therapy, others require surgical intervention for long-term comfort. One of the most widely used surgical treatments for pets with severe hip dysplasia is the femoral head and neck osteotomy (FHO).
What Is a Femoral Head and Neck Osteotomy?
A femoral head and neck osteotomy is a surgical procedure that removes the ball (femoral head) and neck of the hip joint. By eliminating the damaged ball portion of the joint, the painful bone-on-bone contact is removed. Over time, the surrounding muscles and soft tissues create what’s called a “false joint.” This new structure allows your pet to move with far less discomfort and improved mobility.
Unlike total hip replacement, FHO doesn’t replace the joint with an artificial implant. Instead, it relies on the pet’s body to adapt naturally, making it a less invasive and more affordable option for many families.
When Is FHO Recommended for Pets?
Veterinarians may recommend FHO for dogs and cats when:
- Severe hip dysplasia has caused chronic pain that doesn’t improve with medication or therapy.
- Arthritis in the hip joint significantly limits mobility.
- Hip fractures or dislocations can’t be repaired by other methods.
- A pet is not a good candidate for total hip replacement due to size, age, or cost considerations.
FHO is particularly effective for small to medium-sized dogs and cats. While larger dogs can also benefit, they may require more intensive physical rehabilitation after surgery to achieve the best outcome.
Benefits of Femoral Head and Neck Osteotomy
Choosing a femoral head and neck osteotomy for your pet offers several key advantages:
- Pain relief by removing the diseased portion of the hip joint.
- Improved mobility that lets your pet return to a more active lifestyle.
- Cost-effectiveness compared to total hip replacement surgery.
- No risk of implant rejection since the procedure doesn’t involve artificial materials.
Most pets who undergo FHO surgery experience significant improvement in comfort and activity levels within a few months of recovery.
Recovery and Rehabilitation After FHO
Successful recovery after a femoral head and neck osteotomy depends heavily on rehabilitation. Post-surgery, pets usually require:
- Pain management through medications prescribed by the veterinarian.
- Controlled exercise such as leash walks and gentle range-of-motion exercises.
- Physical therapy like hydrotherapy, stretching, and strengthening exercises to rebuild muscle.
- Weight management to reduce strain on the healing hip.
Most pets show noticeable improvement within weeks, and many return to running, playing, and enjoying life without the constant pain caused by hip dysplasia.
Giving Your Pet a Pain-Free Future
Hip dysplasia can be a heartbreaking diagnosis for pet owners, but surgical options like the femoral head and neck osteotomy offer hope. By removing the damaged part of the hip joint, FHO gives dogs and cats the chance to regain mobility and enjoy a happier, more active life. If your pet struggles with chronic hip pain and conservative treatments aren’t enough, talk to your veterinarian to see if FHO surgery is the right path forward.
Trust Maryland Veterinary Surgical Services With Your Companion’s Health
Your companion’s health is important, and the team at MVSS is ready to provide the best care possible for your furry family. We are dedicated to combining comprehensive exams and assessments with informative and honest discussions of your companion’s care. Once we have worked with you to decide on the best course of action for your dog, our professionals will use their surgical expertise to work towards the goal of giving your companion an active and pain-free life. We are proud to serve loyal companions in Catonsville and Baltimore. To learn more about our services, give us a call at 410-788-4088 or visit us online. For more information and tips for dog health, follow us on Facebook and Pinterest.