FHO Surgery (Femoral Head Ostectomy)

FHO Surgery (Femoral Head Ostectomy) removes the head and neck of the femur (thigh bone) to eliminate bone-on-bone contact in the hip joint, reducing pain from hip dysplasia, trauma, or severe arthritis. Instead of a traditional ball-and-socket joint, the body forms a “false joint” made of scar tissue and muscle to support movement. This surgery is most effective in small to medium-sized dogs, though larger dogs may need intensive physical therapy for optimal function.