FurWell at Barkingham provides Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) surgery for dogs and cats experiencing severe hip pain from hip dysplasia, fractures, or luxations. This procedure offers significant pain relief and restored mobility for pets who are not candidates for total hip replacement.
FHO (Femoral Head Ostectomy) is a surgical procedure that removes the head and neck of the femur (the ball of the hip joint) to eliminate the painful bone-on-bone contact that occurs with severe hip disease. A fibrous "false joint" forms during recovery that provides functional, pain-free movement. FHO is most effective in cats and small-to-medium dogs, though larger dogs can also benefit.
We perform radiographs and a complete orthopedic exam to confirm FHO is the appropriate procedure for your pet's hip condition.
Your pet is under general anesthesia with continuous monitoring. The femoral head and neck are carefully removed to eliminate the source of pain.
Early controlled activity and physical rehabilitation are important for FHO success. We provide a detailed post-operative plan and schedule follow-up visits to monitor recovery.
By removing the femoral head, FHO eliminates the source of severe hip pain, allowing your pet to use the affected leg comfortably again.
Many cats and small dogs recover excellent function within 2-3 months. Early physical therapy helps maximize the functional outcome.
FHO is significantly less expensive than total hip replacement while still providing excellent pain relief and quality of life improvement for appropriate candidates.
FHO is typically recommended for pets with severe hip dysplasia, hip fractures, or hip luxations that cannot be corrected by other means. It is most appropriate for cats and small-to-medium dogs. Our veterinarians will assess your pet's radiographs and overall condition to determine if FHO is the best option.
Most cats and small dogs recover excellent hip function within 2-3 months with appropriate rehabilitation. Larger dogs may take longer. Early controlled movement and physical therapy are important to maximize the functional outcome of FHO.
Your pet will need to fast for 8-12 hours before surgery. Our team will provide complete pre-surgical instructions when you schedule. Plan for a recovery area at home that limits stair climbing and jumping after surgery.
Yes, FHO is effective for most cats and small dogs, allowing them to regain full comfortable use of the affected leg. For larger dogs, function may not be as complete but is still significantly improved compared to an untreated painful hip joint.
Call us at (864) 458-8500 or visit 1240 E Butler Rd, Greenville, SC 29607. We are open Monday through Thursday, 8am to 4pm. Schedule an orthopedic consultation today.
If your pet is suffering from hip pain in Greenville, contact us today. Call (864) 458-8500 or visit 1240 E Butler Rd, Greenville, SC 29607. Open Monday through Thursday, 8am to 4pm.
