Case Of The Month: Femoral Head and Neck Ostectomy (FHO)

In this version of Case Of The Month, I want to touch on a surgical procedure called a Femoral Head and Neck Ostectomy, or FHO for sort.

When a dog experiences debilitating hip dysplasia, a particular growth deficiency of the hip joint, or suffers a significant injury to their hip (particularly the head of the femur, the ball of the ball-and-socket joint), sometimes surgery is indicated. Total Hip Replacement (THR) has made great strides with dogs over the years, and many patients do very well with this procedure. The drawback with THR is the cost. A good alternative to THR in many dogs and cats that is around a third of the cost of THR is the FHO.

The radiograph shown here is of a dog, Daisy, that was adopted by one of our (many) very good clients. She came with a significant hind-limb lameness, and this is what we found…

An old injury hadn’t healed appropriately, and Daisy was very sore because of the abnormal motion and grinding sensation that occurred every time she moved this leg. Daisy hurt bad. After discussing Daisy’s options, an FHO was elected.

Ostectomy means, “remove bone,” and that’s exactly what we did with the femoral head and neck. Using a surgical saw, we removed the abnormally healed femoral head. Daisy now has a false joint, and more importantly, she doesn’t have the grinding feeling at her hip. Check out how she’s doing now…

As you can see, Daisy isn’t limited in the least. In fact, by having the surgery she was freed up for pain-free function. If your veterinarian suggests or has suggested an FHO for your dog or cat, give it serious consideration. Your pet will thank you for the pain relief.

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For more Cases of the Month…

• Case of the Month – Corneal Ulcer
• Case of the Month – Discospondylitis

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