Femoral Head Ostectomy for HD

[Zumie05]

Lately we have been thinking about Gary's condition and about the option of a surgical procedure called a femoral head ostectomy. My vet told me that this procedure is much less expensive than a total hip replacement, somewhere between $600 - $1,000. This sounds much better than $6k! Also it is a procedure that is okay to do on puppies, so we could technically have it done now.

The reason why we are thinking more and more about this is because Gary is getting worse it seems, slowly, but he is. Today on our walk he was significantly slower and hopping more than normal, and nothing in his diet or routine has changed. Then he started to whimper and whine while just laying here next to me, so I hopped on the computer to read more about what can be done. The poor guy is even on pain meds and still seems to be uncomfortable.

Has anyone ever had this procedure done to their dog with HD? How were the results? I read that this is more commonly performed on smaller dogs under 50lbs, but larger dogs can have it done also. I haven't talked to a specialist yet, I want to do more research before having to pay $300 by simply walking into a specialists door....

[psychosid77]

which leg is gary limping on?

[targonrotts]

we've done quite a few FHO surgeries on all size dogs. young and leaner dogs do best.
this procedure is usually done when there are already arthritic changes in the hip.

i would, though, before i go to surgery get a second opinion from an ortho vet to see what is best and is it really needed at this time.

[Zumie05]

Gary is limping on both of his back legs.

I have a suspicious feeling that something needs to be done, and soon, because Gary can barely walk now. He was whimpering before I left for work today, and he is again now since I have been back from work.

[Katies0728]

Just thought I would give my opinion! My rottie is 150 pounds, and when I rescued him he had a fractured femoral head on his left side. He had an FHO, and has done wonderful. I did take him to hydrotherapy afterwards, but he does everything a normal dog can do!