FHO Surgery

FHO (Femoral Head Ostectomy) in Eugene, OR

Four Corners Veterinary Clinic provides expert FHO surgery in Eugene, helping pets regain comfort and mobility with compassionate, locally trusted care from our experienced veterinary team.

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Enjoy a free first exam when you schedule your pet's FHO consultation. Call today for details and to reserve your spot.

Understanding FHO (Femoral Head Ostectomy)

FHO, or Femoral Head Ostectomy, is a surgical procedure that removes the head and neck of the femur to relieve pain caused by hip joint disease or injury. This procedure creates a false joint, allowing pets to move more comfortably and regain function in the affected leg.

FHO is often recommended for dogs and cats suffering from conditions like hip dysplasia, severe arthritis, hip fractures, or dislocations that cannot be managed with other treatments. By eliminating the source of pain, FHO can significantly improve a pet’s quality of life, especially when other options are not feasible or effective.

At Four Corners Veterinary Clinic, our veterinarians carefully evaluate each pet to determine if FHO is the right solution. Our goal is always to maximize comfort, restore mobility, and help your pet return to the activities they love. If you are concerned about your pet’s hip pain, our team is here to guide you through every step of the process.

What to Expect During FHO Surgery

Our veterinary team is dedicated to providing clear guidance and support throughout your pet’s FHO experience in Eugene. Here’s what you can expect when your pet undergoes this important procedure.

Comprehensive Pre-Surgical Assessment

Every FHO at Four Corners Veterinary Clinic begins with a thorough physical exam and diagnostic imaging, such as digital radiographs, to confirm the diagnosis and ensure your pet is a candidate for surgery. Our veterinarians discuss your pet’s health, answer your questions, and tailor a plan for your pet’s specific needs.

Surgical Procedure and Anesthesia

During the FHO, your pet receives advanced anesthesia monitoring for safety and comfort. The procedure involves removing the femoral head and neck to eliminate bone-on-bone contact. Our surgical suite is equipped with modern technology, and our experienced veterinary professionals follow strict protocols to minimize risk and promote a smooth surgery.

Pain Management and Recovery Support

Pain control is a priority at Four Corners Veterinary Clinic. We provide multimodal pain relief before, during, and after surgery, often including medications and, when appropriate, K-Laser therapy for enhanced healing. Our team gives you detailed instructions for at-home care and rehab exercises to encourage optimal recovery.

Ongoing Follow-Up and Rehabilitation

Your pet’s recovery is guided by our veterinary team, with scheduled follow-up visits to monitor healing and adjust care as needed. We offer advice on safe activity reintroduction and are available for support if questions or concerns arise. Our goal is to help your pet regain strength and confidence after FHO surgery.

Why FHO Surgery is Important for Your Pet

FHO surgery can be life-changing for pets suffering from hip pain or mobility issues. By removing the damaged femoral head, this procedure eliminates the source of chronic discomfort and allows your pet to move more freely, often restoring their ability to walk, run, and play.

Relieves Chronic Pain

FHO surgery directly addresses severe hip pain caused by arthritis, fractures, or dislocations. Once the damaged bone is removed, most pets experience significant, lasting relief from discomfort.

Restores Mobility and Independence

Many pets regain the ability to use their affected limb after FHO, leading to improved strength, balance, and quality of life. This can mean a return to daily walks, playtime, and normal routines.

Improves Long-Term Wellbeing

By treating the root cause of hip dysfunction, FHO can prevent further joint damage and complications. This proactive approach supports your pet’s long-term health and happiness.

Signs Your Pet May Need FHO Surgery

Pets with hip disease or injury may show subtle or obvious signs of pain and reduced mobility. If you notice any of the following, your pet may benefit from an FHO consultation:

• Limping or favoring one hind leg
• Difficulty rising, jumping, or climbing stairs
• Decreased activity or reluctance to play
• Crying out or showing discomfort when touched near the hip
• Muscle loss in the affected limb

If your pet displays these signs, contact Four Corners Veterinary Clinic promptly. Early assessment by our veterinarians can help determine if FHO or another treatment is best for your pet’s needs.

How Often Should Your Pet Receive FHO Surgery?

FHO is typically a one-time surgical procedure performed to address specific hip problems. Once completed and properly healed, most pets do not require repeat FHO surgery on the same limb. However, some pets with bilateral hip disease may need the procedure on both hips, either at the same time or staged over separate visits. Our veterinary team carefully evaluates each case and will recommend the best timing and approach for your pet. Regular post-operative checkups and ongoing monitoring are essential for optimal recovery and long-term joint health.

Practice Highlights

Four Corners Veterinary Clinic is proud to be a trusted choice for FHO surgery in Eugene and surrounding communities. Our commitment to your pet’s care includes:

• Locally Owned and Operated – Deep roots in the Eugene community
• Experienced Surgical Team – Including Dr. Jonathan Williams and Dr. Jessie Sinkowski
• Modern Surgical Suite and Technology – State-of-the-art facility for safe, advanced care
• Personalized Pain Management – K-Laser therapy and tailored protocols
• Accessible, Competitive Pricing – Flexible payment options and wellness plans
• Compassionate Support – Guidance throughout the surgical process and recovery