6701 Johnston St
Lafayette, LA 70503
Our services
Femoral head ostectomy relieves chronic hip pain and restores mobility for pets when medication and other treatments aren't enough.
Carson Animal Hospital offers advanced FHO surgery in Lafayette for pets suffering from hip pain, injury, or mobility issues. Our veterinary team delivers exceptional, compassionate orthopedic care.
FHO, or femoral head ostectomy, is a surgical procedure that removes the head and neck of the femur, the bone in your pet's hip joint. This surgery is often recommended for dogs and cats experiencing severe hip pain, chronic dislocation, fractures, or conditions like hip dysplasia that haven’t responded to other treatments.
By removing the damaged portion of the femur, FHO eliminates bone-on-bone contact, significantly reducing pain and restoring mobility. Over time, a fibrous “false joint” forms, allowing your pet to move comfortably without the original joint structure. FHO surgery can provide excellent outcomes, especially for smaller dogs and cats, but is also an option for larger pets when other surgical treatments are not possible or effective.
At Carson Animal Hospital, our veterinarians use advanced surgical techniques and pain management protocols to deliver the best possible results. We are committed to helping your pet regain comfort and return to an active, happy life.
Understanding each step of the FHO process helps you feel confident about your pet's care at Carson Animal Hospital. Here’s what you can expect during FHO surgery in Lafayette:
Our veterinary team performs a thorough examination and reviews your pet’s medical history. Digital radiographs confirm the need for FHO, and pre-anesthetic bloodwork ensures your pet is healthy enough for surgery. We discuss all options and answer your questions so you feel informed.
On the day of surgery, your pet receives a tailored anesthesia plan and individualized pain management. Our veterinarians use precise surgical techniques to remove the femoral head and neck, minimizing tissue trauma. Dr. Jim Carson III’s extensive experience in orthopedic surgery ensures your pet receives expert care.
After surgery, our veterinary professionals closely monitor your pet’s comfort and vital signs. We use multimodal pain control, including medications and therapeutic laser, to speed healing and reduce discomfort. Most pets go home the same or next day.
Our team provides a customized recovery plan, including physical therapy exercises and activity restrictions. We offer clear instructions and ongoing support to help your pet regain strength and mobility after FHO surgery in Lafayette. Follow-up visits are scheduled to track progress and address any concerns.
FHO surgery can be life-changing for pets suffering from chronic hip pain, injury, or degenerative joint disease. It provides lasting relief when other treatments have failed and can dramatically improve quality of life.
FHO eliminates the source of bone-on-bone pain, allowing your pet to move more freely and comfortably. This leads to a happier, more active companion.
After recovery, most pets regain the ability to walk, run, and play. FHO restores function so your pet can enjoy daily activities again.
By resolving chronic pain and lameness, FHO surgery helps prevent muscle wasting and secondary problems, supporting a healthier, more fulfilling life for your pet.
Recognizing symptoms of hip pain or dysfunction is key to getting your pet the help they need. Watch for these signs that may indicate your pet could benefit from FHO surgery:
If you notice any of these signs, contact Carson Animal Hospital promptly. Early intervention can prevent further discomfort and improve surgical outcomes for your pet.
FHO is a one-time, corrective orthopedic procedure. It is only recommended when your pet has an injury, chronic pain, or a condition that cannot be managed with medications or less invasive treatments. Most pets will not require this surgery more than once in their lifetime.
Our veterinarians will carefully evaluate your pet’s unique situation and discuss whether FHO is the most appropriate option. If your pet is experiencing hip pain or mobility issues, schedule a consultation with our team to discuss the best path forward. Each case is unique, and we are committed to creating a treatment plan tailored to your pet’s needs.
Carson Animal Hospital is proud to offer advanced orthopedic surgery and personalized care for every pet. Here’s what sets our practice apart:
FHO (Femoral Head Ostectomy) surgery removes the head and neck of the femur to relieve hip pain in pets. It’s recommended for dogs and cats with hip injuries, chronic pain, or conditions like hip dysplasia that do not respond to other treatments. Our veterinary team at Carson Animal Hospital can determine if FHO is right for your pet.
The cost of FHO surgery varies based on your pet’s size, condition, and specific needs. Most surgeries take about one to two hours. For a personalized estimate and information on payment options, contact Carson Animal Hospital at (337) 981-7998.
Before FHO surgery, follow your veterinarian’s instructions on fasting and medications. After surgery, your pet will need rest, pain management, and gradual rehabilitation. Our team provides detailed aftercare instructions and ongoing support to ensure a smooth recovery at home.
FHO surgery treats conditions like hip dysplasia, fractures, chronic dislocation, and arthritis that cause severe hip pain. It helps restore mobility and prevents further joint damage when other treatments are not effective. Our veterinarians will discuss whether FHO is appropriate for your pet’s condition.
To schedule an FHO consultation, call Carson Animal Hospital at (337) 981-7998 or visit 6701 Johnston St, Lafayette, LA 70503. We’re open Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM–5 PM, and Saturday, 7:30 AM–12 Noon.
Give your pet the gift of pain-free movement and a better quality of life. Contact Carson Animal Hospital to schedule an FHO consultation or learn more about our orthopedic surgery expertise. Our caring veterinary team is here to answer your questions and guide you every step of the way.
Call us at (337) 981-7998 or visit us at 6701 Johnston St, Lafayette, LA 70503. We’re conveniently located in Lafayette, serving all surrounding communities. Our hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 5 PM, and Saturday, 7:30 AM to 12 Noon. Your pet’s comfort and wellbeing are always our priority.
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