Femoral Head and Neck Excision

    • Silver

    Femoral Head and Neck Excision

    Hi there, Has anyone had experience with their pup undergoing this procedure? Just brought our kelpie home from the vet's yesterday... 9 months old and generally very active, we are assured that with proper physio and rehab measures she will make a good recovery... the decision to have the surgery was not an easy one by any means however... And even though our only other options were amputation or Total Hip Replacement (which would have been an extra $2k on top of the $1400 for femoral head and neck excision), our main objective was just to get her functional and pain-free - she has her whole life ahead of her. I just would love someone to tell me that they know, for SURE, that their dog has been pain-free post this kind of surgery. I mean they don't do this sort of procedure for humans with hip problems, so I'm just scared that we've put her through all this pain and trauma and long recovery/rehab to come, to result in her always having a sore/dodgy hip? I mean, while it was strapped in following the closed reduction attempts being three-legged didn't stop her from doing anything at all and would it maybe have been kinder to amputate altogether? I just don't know :(
    • Gold Top Dog

    I'm not familiar with the surgery, so I can't help with your questions but I'm sure someone will be along soon. I mainly just wanted to say that you obviously love your girl dearly and made the best decision with her comfort in mind. I hope she has a complete recovery and a long, pain-free life.  (((Hugs)))

    • Moderators
    • Gold Top Dog

     I am sure that some on here have used the FHO procedure but not sure which members

    There is a yahoo board for orthopedic issues that focuses on hips and knees - you'll find lots of information there

    http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/orthodogs/?yguid=285467416

    wishing you and your pup lots of luck and swift healing!

    • Gold Top Dog
    I've heard good things about it leaving a dog pain free... hang in there, it's hard at first after any surgery of this sort. Highly, highly recommend swimming rehab as part of the therapy to improve range and build scar tissue & muscle in that area.