19 Pros And Cons Of FHO Surgery Dog

Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) is a surgical procedure commonly performed on dogs suffering from hip dysplasia, severe arthritis, fractures, or other hip-related problems. The surgery involves the removal of the femoral head, which is the ball part of the ball-and-socket joint that makes up the hip. By removing the femoral head, the dog’s body forms a “false joint” or fibrous pseudoarthrosis, which can provide relief from pain and restore a reasonable range of motion.

FHO surgery is often recommended for dogs that are not ideal candidates for total hip replacement due to size, age, or financial constraints. While the procedure can be beneficial, it’s not without its drawbacks. Understanding the pros and cons of FHO surgery can help pet owners make informed decisions about their dog’s health and well-being.

Pros Of FHO Surgery

1. Pain Relief

One of the primary benefits of FHO surgery is the significant pain relief it offers. Dogs suffering from hip dysplasia or severe arthritis often experience chronic pain that affects their quality of life. Removing the femoral head eliminates bone-on-bone contact, reducing inflammation and discomfort.

Pain Relief Post-Surgery:

Immediate Relief: Many dogs show noticeable pain reduction within a few weeks post-surgery.
Long-term Comfort: With proper rehabilitation, dogs often experience long-term relief from chronic pain, enhancing their overall quality of life.

2. Improved Mobility

FHO surgery can restore a dog’s mobility, allowing them to walk, run, and play more comfortably. The formation of a pseudoarthrosis or false joint can provide sufficient stability and movement, enabling dogs to regain much of their lost activity levels.

Mobility Benefits:

Increased Activity Levels: Dogs often return to their normal activity levels within a few months post-surgery.
Enhanced Range of Motion: The false joint formed post-surgery can offer an adequate range of motion, allowing dogs to move more freely.

3. Cost-Effective Alternative

Compared to total hip replacement, FHO surgery is a more affordable option for treating hip problems in dogs. The procedure does not require specialized implants, making it a viable option for pet owners on a budget.

Cost Considerations:

Lower Surgical Costs: FHO is generally less expensive than other orthopedic surgeries, such as total hip replacement.
Reduced Post-Operative Expenses: The absence of implants can lead to fewer complications and, consequently, lower follow-up care costs.

4. Suitable For Various Dog Sizes

FHO surgery is not limited by the size of the dog, making it a flexible option for both small and medium-sized dogs. The procedure can be tailored to suit the specific anatomical needs of the patient, ensuring optimal results.

Adaptability for Different Breeds:

Small to Medium Breeds: FHO is particularly effective for small to medium-sized dogs, as they tend to adapt better to the formation of a false joint.
Customized Approach: The surgery can be adjusted based on the individual dog’s anatomy and condition, providing personalized care.

5. Quick Recovery Time

FHO surgery typically involves a relatively quick recovery period, especially compared to more invasive procedures like total hip replacement. With proper post-operative care and rehabilitation, most dogs can return to normal activities within a few months.

Recovery Insights:

Shorter Hospital Stay: Dogs usually require a shorter hospital stay post-surgery, allowing them to return home sooner.
Accelerated Rehabilitation: The rehabilitation process is often quicker, with many dogs showing significant improvements within weeks.

6. Minimal Invasiveness

The FHO procedure is less invasive than other surgical options, such as total hip replacement. This minimal invasiveness reduces the risk of complications and promotes faster healing.

Surgical Technique Benefits:

Reduced Tissue Damage: The surgery involves less manipulation of surrounding tissues, leading to a smoother recovery.
Lower Infection Risk: A less invasive approach reduces the risk of post-operative infections and complications.

7. Effective For Young Dogs

FHO surgery is particularly effective for young dogs with hip dysplasia, as their bodies are still developing and can adapt well to the formation of a false joint. The procedure can prevent further joint damage and provide a long-term solution for pain management.

Youthful Adaptability:

Developmental Benefits: Young dogs often recover faster and adapt more effectively to the new joint structure.
Prevention of Long-Term Damage: Early intervention with FHO can prevent additional joint deterioration in young dogs.

8. No Implant Complications

Since FHO surgery does not require implants, there is no risk of implant-related complications, such as loosening, rejection, or infection. This reduces the need for additional surgeries and long-term maintenance.

Implant-Free Advantages:

No Hardware Issues: Eliminates concerns related to implant failure or rejection.
Simplified Post-Operative Care: With no implants to manage, post-operative care is often more straightforward.

9. Broad Indications for Use

FHO surgery can be used to treat a wide range of hip conditions, including hip dysplasia, fractures, and arthritis. This versatility makes it a valuable option for dogs with various hip-related issues.

Versatility in Treatment:

Multiple Applications: Effective for different hip problems, offering a comprehensive solution.
Adaptable to Individual Needs: The procedure can be tailored to address specific conditions and requirements.

Cons Of FHO Surgery

1. Limited Range Of Motion

While FHO surgery can improve mobility, it may not fully restore the range of motion to the level of a natural hip joint. Some dogs may experience limitations in certain movements, such as jumping or climbing stairs.

Motion Limitations:

Partial Mobility Restoration: The false joint may not provide the same level of flexibility as a natural joint.
Activity Restrictions: Some dogs may face challenges with high-impact activities, requiring ongoing management.

2. Rehabilitation Requirements

Successful recovery from FHO surgery requires diligent rehabilitation, which can be time-consuming and demanding for pet owners. Physical therapy, controlled exercises, and regular monitoring are essential to ensure optimal healing and function.

Rehabilitation Challenges:

Time-Intensive Process: Requires a significant commitment to physical therapy and exercises.
Owner Involvement: Pet owners must actively participate in the rehabilitation process, which may be challenging for some.

3. Potential For Complications

Like any surgical procedure, FHO surgery carries the risk of complications, such as infection, bleeding, or adverse reactions to anesthesia. While these risks are generally low, they can still pose concerns for some pet owners.

Complication Risks:

Surgical Risks: Includes potential for infection, bleeding, or anesthesia-related issues.
Post-Operative Concerns: Complications can arise during the recovery process, requiring careful monitoring and intervention.

4. May Not Be Ideal For Large Dogs

FHO surgery is generally more effective for small to medium-sized dogs. Large dogs may not adapt as well to the formation of a false joint, leading to less favorable outcomes.

Size-Related Considerations:

Adaptation Challenges: Larger dogs may struggle to adapt to the new joint structure, impacting mobility.
Alternative Options: Total hip replacement may be a more suitable option for larger breeds.

5. Possibility Of Residual Lameness

Some dogs may experience residual lameness or gait abnormalities following FHO surgery. While these issues are often manageable with rehabilitation, they can persist in certain cases.

Lameness Concerns:

Persistent Gait Issues: Some dogs may continue to exhibit lameness or altered gait post-surgery.
Long-Term Management: Ongoing rehabilitation and management may be required to address residual lameness.

6. Lack Of Weight-Bearing Joint

The removal of the femoral head means that there is no true weight-bearing joint in the affected hip. This can lead to altered weight distribution and potential strain on other joints over time.

Joint Structure Impact:

Weight Distribution Changes: Altered joint mechanics may lead to increased stress on other joints.
Compensatory Issues: Dogs may develop compensatory issues in other areas of the body due to altered weight-bearing dynamics.

7. Requires Skilled Veterinary Surgeons

FHO surgery requires a skilled and experienced veterinary surgeon to ensure optimal outcomes. Not all veterinary practices may have the expertise or resources to perform this specialized procedure.

Surgical Expertise Needs:

Qualified Surgeons: Success depends on the skill and experience of the veterinary surgeon performing the procedure.
Access to Specialized Care: Pet owners may need to seek out specialized veterinary practices for FHO surgery.

8. Post-Surgery Muscle Atrophy

Post-surgery, some dogs may experience muscle atrophy in the affected limb due to reduced use during the healing process. Rehabilitation and physical therapy are crucial to rebuild muscle strength and function.

Muscle Atrophy Concerns:

Strength Loss: Reduced limb use can lead to muscle atrophy, impacting mobility.
Rebuilding Challenges: Rehabilitation focuses on rebuilding muscle strength and restoring function.

9. Possible Need For Additional Surgeries

In some cases, additional surgeries may be required if complications arise or if the initial surgery does not achieve the desired outcomes. This can lead to increased costs and extended recovery times.

Surgical Intervention Possibility:

Additional Procedures: Some dogs may require further surgical intervention if complications occur.
Cost and Recovery Impact: Additional surgeries can lead to higher costs and prolonged recovery periods.

10. Emotional Stress On Dog And Owner

The surgical process, recovery, and rehabilitation can be emotionally taxing for both the dog and its owner. The stress of seeing a beloved pet in discomfort and managing the rehabilitation process can be challenging.

Emotional Considerations:

Owner Stress: The responsibility of managing post-operative care and rehabilitation can be emotionally taxing for pet owners.
Dog Anxiety: The surgical and recovery process may cause stress and anxiety for the dog, requiring careful management and support.

Conclusion

Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) surgery can be a viable solution for dogs suffering from hip dysplasia, arthritis, or other hip-related issues. It offers significant pain relief, improved mobility, and a cost-effective alternative to total hip replacement. However, the procedure also comes with its challenges, including rehabilitation requirements, potential complications, and limitations in range of motion.

Pet owners considering FHO surgery should weigh the pros and cons carefully and consult with a qualified veterinary surgeon to determine the best course of action for their dog’s specific needs. With proper care and rehabilitation, many dogs can enjoy a better quality of life post-surgery, making FHO a valuable option for managing hip problems in dogs.