Caring for Your Dog After Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) or Femoral Head and Neck Excision (FHNE)82

As a devoted dog lover, I understand the heartbreak of seeing your furry friend in pain. A displaced femoral head in dogs, often resulting from a condition like Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease or a traumatic injury, requires careful and consistent care. While surgical intervention, typically a femoral head ostectomy (FHO) or femoral head and neck excision (FHNE), is often necessary, post-operative care is equally crucial for a successful recovery. This procedure removes the head and neck of the femur, allowing the leg to heal in a slightly different way, but it's important to understand the commitment involved to help your dog heal effectively and comfortably.

Understanding the Procedure: FHO and FHNE are essentially the same procedure – the removal of the femoral head and neck. This allows the leg muscles to gradually form a "false joint" which provides some level of functionality. While not restoring full mobility, it significantly reduces pain and allows for improved weight-bearing capacity over time. The surgery itself is quite effective, but the recovery process requires careful management and patient adherence to the veterinarian's instructions.

Post-Operative Care: The first few days after surgery are critical. Your vet will likely prescribe pain medication (often NSAIDs or opioids), and it's crucial to administer these as directed. Never adjust the dosage without consulting your vet. Closely monitor your dog for any signs of complications such as excessive swelling, bleeding, lethargy, or loss of appetite. Contact your vet immediately if you notice anything unusual.

Pain Management: Pain management is paramount during recovery. While medication helps, it’s also important to create a comfortable and restful environment for your dog. Provide a soft, comfortable bed in a quiet area of the house. Avoid roughhousing or activities that could potentially cause further injury. Gentle handling is key – avoid lifting your dog by the legs for several weeks.

Confinement and Restricting Activity: Your vet will advise on the necessary level of confinement. This often involves crate rest for several weeks, particularly for smaller breeds or dogs with significant damage. Even with larger breeds, restricted activity is essential. This doesn’t mean your dog should be immobile, but walks should be short, frequent, and on a leash, preventing excessive exertion or jumping. A harness is preferred over a collar to avoid putting pressure on the neck and injured leg.

Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation: Once the initial healing phase has passed (typically after several weeks), your vet may recommend physical therapy. This might involve range-of-motion exercises, hydrotherapy (underwater treadmill), or other therapies designed to improve muscle strength and joint mobility. A certified canine rehabilitation therapist can guide you through these exercises and ensure they are performed correctly.

Diet and Nutrition: Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for recovery. Your dog's diet should be balanced and appropriate for their age, breed, and activity level. Obesity puts additional stress on the healing joint. Consult your veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist for guidance on dietary adjustments. Ensuring your dog receives adequate nutrition will support the healing process.

Monitoring for Complications: Regular monitoring is essential throughout the recovery period. Be vigilant for any signs of infection (swelling, redness, heat, discharge), lameness that doesn't improve, or persistent pain. Contact your vet immediately if you have any concerns. Follow-up appointments are vital for monitoring progress and making any necessary adjustments to the care plan.

Long-Term Care: Even after your dog has fully recovered, there might be some lasting effects. While many dogs regain a near-normal gait, they may have some degree of limited mobility or slight limp. Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding strenuous activities that put excessive stress on the leg, and providing a supportive environment will help ensure your dog enjoys a good quality of life.

Specific Considerations for Different Breeds and Sizes: Smaller breeds might recover more quickly than larger breeds, but their bones are more fragile, requiring even more careful management. Larger breeds, with their heavier weight, may need extended periods of confinement and rehabilitation to minimize stress on the leg. Your veterinarian will tailor the recovery plan to your dog's specific needs, considering breed, size, age, and the extent of the injury.

The Importance of Patience and Consistency: Recovery from FHO/FHNE requires patience and consistency. It's a process that takes time, and setbacks are possible. Remain positive and supportive, offering your dog plenty of love and gentle encouragement. Closely follow your veterinarian's instructions and attend all follow-up appointments. Your commitment and dedication will greatly influence your dog's recovery and long-term well-being.

When to Seek Immediate Veterinary Attention: Don't hesitate to contact your vet immediately if you notice any of the following: excessive swelling, significant lameness, discharge from the incision site, fever, loss of appetite, persistent vomiting or diarrhea, lethargy, or any other signs of distress. Early intervention can often prevent serious complications.

Remember, successful recovery involves a collaborative effort between you, your veterinarian, and potentially a canine rehabilitation therapist. By providing your dog with the best possible care, you can help them regain mobility and enjoy a happy, active life.

2025-03-25

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