A Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) surgery typically takes 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on factors like your dog’s size, muscle condition, and the severity of their hip issue. While the procedure itself is relatively quick, the total time at the clinic includes pre-surgical preparation, anesthesia, surgery, and recovery monitoring.
Breakdown of the FHO Surgery Timeline
1. Pre-Surgical Preparation (30–60 Minutes)
- Your dog is placed under general anesthesia.
- The surgical site is shaved and sterilized.
- Vitals are monitored to ensure safe anesthesia levels.
2. The FHO Procedure (45–90 Minutes)z
- The surgeon makes an incision over the hip joint.
- The femoral head and neck are carefully removed.
- The surrounding muscles are repositioned to support healing.
- The incision is closed with sutures, and your dog is gently woken up from anesthesia.
3. Post-Surgical Recovery & Monitoring (2–4 Hours)
- Your dog is monitored closely as they wake from anesthesia.
- Pain relief and antibiotics are administered.
- Once stable, your pet is transferred to recovery, where they rest before discharge.
When Can My Dog Come Home?
At Sandringham Veterinary Hospital, dogs typically stay overnight for post-op monitoring and pain management. However, in some cases, smaller dogs or stable patients may go home the same day with strict recovery instructions.
If your dog is undergoing FHO surgery, our team will guide you through the process, expected timeline, and recovery care to ensure the best outcome. Contact us today to learn more or schedule a consultation.