BELLA’S JOURNEY: The Surgery That Will Help Her Live Comfortably

As you may know, Bella, an 8-year-old mixed breed, is currently staying with a medical foster and is luckily about to become a CAS dog. Having endured hardship, Bella still remains a loving and gentle dog.  However, while she awaits surgery, Bella still struggles with chronic pain affecting her movement because of degenerative joint disease (DJD) in her hip.

She is now awaiting a medical procedure known as Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO). Under the care of her medical foster, Bella will be closely monitored and receive the special attention she deserves. Once she has recovered, she will be available for adoption.

Here is some detailed information on the procedure and what Bella’s medical journey will continue to look like.

What is an FHO?

Bella’s DJD is likely the cause of wear and tear due to old age, joint injuries or genetics, making an FHO crucial for Bella to live pain-free. An FHO is the medical procedure in which the “ball,” or femoral head, of the hip joint is surgically removed. This procedure becomes vital to prevent the painful bone-on-bone friction caused by the femoral head upon the pelvic and femur bone.

Bella will be placed under anesthesia while a surgeon conducts the procedure, which could take up to 2 hours plus additional monitoring time. Removing the femoral head of her hip joint will eventually allow for the surrounding muscles and tissues to form a flexible and false joint, what is known as a pseudoarthrosis.

Why recovery takes so long

An FHO is only the first step in Bella’s long journey to live pain-free. Recovery is the longest stage in Bella’s journey. Typically, after an FHO, recovery can take 6 to 12 weeks. During this time, the tissues surrounding where the femoral head once was will slowly form a pseudoarthrosis: a cushion to prevent the painful bone movement Bella faced before.

During these weeks, pets require special care and attention. On top of being administered with medications like anti-inflammatories, pain relievers, and antibiotics, she also must be prevented from licking or getting into water. Jumping and difficult physical activity should be prevented in the first few weeks and be gradually introduced through physical therapy and slow walks to build back the muscle.

FHO surgery can, unfortunately, have complications. Without proper care, the area could potentially become infected, or the tissue may not form properly, leading to a limp or a slightly shorter leg. Proper care is the only way to prevent such problems and enable Bella’s full recovery.

Why medical foster care and collaboration with CAS matters

CAS’ Boris & Natasha’s Fund will cover the entire cost of Bella’s surgery.  After her surgery, CAS will support Bella’s foster family in providing continuity of care, addressing any additional needs she might have. Following Bella’s recovery, CAS will accept applications for her adoption and adopt her to just the right family.