FHO Surgery for Your Pet from Our Veterinarian in Summit, NJ
When your pet is suffering with chronic pain and inflammation of the hip area, the veterinary team at Summit Dog and Cat Hospital, located in Summit, NJ, is here to help with everything from pain management to FHO surgery. While not recommended for all pets, FHO (Femoral Head Ostectomy) surgery is an excellent option for smaller dogs and average-sized cats. Keep reading to learn more about the surgery and how our team can help your pet.
What Is FHO Surgery?
The hip is made up of a ball and socket which is connected to a part of the pelvis called the acetabulum. The femur is attached to this area and allows the hip to move freely in all directions along with the femur. If the hip becomes damaged, whether due to disease, injury, or age, the range of motion will become limited. It will also cause pain and inflammation around the hip area.
FHO surgery removes the head of the femur bone that normally rests in the hip socket. Basically, it removes the bone on bone friction that causes most issues. Over time, scar tissue develops to provide cushioning or a false joint. This surgery is not recommended for all pets, especially large dogs, but it has a high success rate for dogs under 45 pounds and cats of average weight.
What Conditions Can FHO Surgery Help?
FHO surgery may be a good fit for your pet if it has:
• Hip dysplasia/dislocation
• A hip fracture
• Severe arthritis
• Legg-Perthes disease
Speak to our Summit, NJ, veterinary team to learn more and see if this pet surgery is right for your furry friend.
What to Expect on the Day of FHO Surgery
Expect to arrive at the animal clinic early. This is to ensure your pet is healthy for surgery and allow for pre-surgical preparation, including anesthesia. After the head of the femur is removed, your pet will be sutured and sent to recovery for several hours for observation. Your pet will usually be able to go home the same day with an e-collar, medication, and specific instructions for care.
Contact Our Veterinarian Near You in Summit, NJ, for High-Quality Pet Care
If you are looking for a veterinarian in Summit, NJ, that specializes in orthopedic pet surgery, Summit Dog and Cat Hospital welcomes you to contact us and discuss your pet’s options. Our friendly staff is happy to help you with the answers you need. Give us a call at (908)-273-2200. We proudly serve the communities of Short Hills, Millburn, Livingston, Chatham, Madison, Union, Westfield, Springfield, and Summit, NJ.
Summit Dog & Cat Hospital
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before your visit.
What is FHO surgery for pets?
FHO surgery for pets, also called femoral head ostectomy, is a hip surgery that removes the head of the femur bone to reduce painful bone-on-bone friction in the hip joint. Over time, scar tissue forms a false joint that helps support more comfortable movement.
When is FHO surgery recommended for dogs?
FHO surgery in dogs may be recommended for hip dysplasia, hip dislocation, hip fractures, severe arthritis, or Legg-Perthes disease. It is often more suitable for smaller dogs than large dogs. A veterinarian can examine your dog and decide whether dog FHO surgery is the right treatment option.
Can cats have FHO surgery?
Yes. FHO surgery for cats may be recommended when a cat has a painful hip injury, hip fracture, hip dislocation, arthritis, or another condition affecting normal hip movement. Summit Dog & Cat Hospital can evaluate your cat and explain whether FHO surgery cat treatment is appropriate.
What happens on the day of FHO surgery?
On the day of FHO surgery, your pet is examined and prepared for anesthesia before the procedure begins. After the femoral head is removed, your pet is sutured and monitored during recovery. Most pets go home with medication, an e-collar, and specific aftercare instructions.
Where can I find FHO surgery for pets in Summit, NJ?
Summit Dog & Cat Hospital provides FHO surgery for pets in Summit, NJ, and serves nearby communities including Short Hills, Millburn, Livingston, Chatham, Madison, Union, Westfield, and Springfield. Pet owners can contact the hospital to discuss whether FHO surgery is right for their dog or cat.