Femoral head ostectomy

Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) is a surgical procedure used primarily in veterinary medicine to treat hip pain, most commonly resulting from hip dysplasia, osteoarthritis, or a hip injury.

Overview

The procedure involves the removal of the head and neck from the femur, or thigh bone. This eliminates the bone-on-bone contact that causes pain in affected animals. Following the surgery, the body forms a pseudoarthrosis, a type of false joint, which provides mobility and alleviates discomfort.

Indications

Femoral Head Ostectomy is typically indicated for animals suffering from chronic hip pain that has not responded to conservative treatment methods such as weight management, physical therapy, or medication. Conditions that may necessitate an FHO include hip dysplasia, osteoarthritis, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, and traumatic hip injuries such as fractures or dislocations.

Procedure

The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision over the hip joint and dislocates the femoral head from the acetabulum. The head and neck of the femur are then removed, and the remaining bone is smoothed to prevent any sharp edges from causing discomfort. The muscles and soft tissues are then sutured back together.

Recovery

Post-operative care for a Femoral Head Ostectomy includes pain management, physical therapy, and restricted activity to allow the pseudoarthrosis to form. Most animals begin to use the limb again within a few days to weeks following the surgery, and full recovery is typically seen within three to six months.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with a Femoral Head Ostectomy. These can include infection, nerve damage, and an unsatisfactory outcome such as continued lameness or decreased range of motion. However, with appropriate surgical technique and post-operative care, the majority of animals experience a significant improvement in their quality of life following an FHO.

See Also

• Hip dysplasia
• Osteoarthritis
• Legg-Calve-Perthes disease
• Veterinary surgery