Femoral Head and Neck Excision (FHNE) surgery may be recommended for dogs or cats with severe hip pain, most commonly caused by hip dysplasia, fractures or advanced degenerative joint disease.
These conditions can lead to significant discomfort, lameness and reduced mobility, often making it difficult for your pet to walk, run, jump or climb stairs comfortably.
FHNE surgery is typically considered when medical management, such as pain relief, weight control and physiotherapy, is no longer providing adequate improvement in quality of life.
Surgical management
FHNE surgery involves removal of the femoral head and neck (the “ball” and part of the “neck” of the hip joint). This eliminates painful bone-on-bone contact and allows a smooth fibrous tissue joint to form over time, which is supported by surrounding muscles and helps improve comfort and mobility.
We offer FHNE surgery at Animal Trust for a fixed cost of £719, which includes up to 2 nights post-operative hospitalisation, pain relief, antibiotics (if required), and pre-operative blood tests.
Diagnosis usually includes x-rays to assess the hip joint and confirm whether FHNE is the most appropriate treatment option.
X-rays are charged separately at £419 as part of the diagnostic work-up. More advanced imaging, if required, may incur additional costs.
Recovery from Femoral Head and Neck Excision Surgery
A protective collar (buster collar) must be worn to prevent interference with the surgical site. Pain relief will be prescribed for use at home.
Following FHNE surgery, your pet will need a period of restricted activity while they recover and adapt to using the limb.
Controlled exercise is important during recovery, as gentle use of the limb helps support muscle strength and the development of a functional fibrous joint. Your veterinary team will advise you on an appropriate level of activity for your pet.
Most patients improve gradually over several weeks to months as comfort returns and muscle strength builds.
Physiotherapy or hydrotherapy may be recommended in some cases to help support recovery and improve mobility.
Further X-rays are not routinely required during recovery unless there are concerns about progress or expected healing.
Post-operative checks will be booked at the clinic to monitor healing. These are included in the surgery fee.
