Clinical Studies

Study Goals

Ethos Discovery seeks to investigate a new approach to reducing hemorrhages (bleeding) in French Bulldogs following slipped discs in their back. Epsilon-aminocaproic acid (EACA) has been identified as a potential solution due to its known ability to increase blood clot activity. It has been used in both human and veterinary medicine to reduce blood loss states and is used during surgery for several conditions. Additionally, successful reduction in hemorrhages has been reported in human orthopedic, spinal, cardiac, and liver transplant surgeries and in Greyhounds (another breed at high risk of bleeding) undergoing gonad removal and amputations. Limiting hemorrhages in this way may reduce the amount of spinal cord injury and result in slower progression of neurological symptoms, milder neurological deficits, and better long-term outcomes for affected patients.

Condition Overview

Recent research published by Wheat Ridge Animal Hospital shows that:

• Two out of three French Bulldogs have bleeding with slipped discs in their back.
• Dogs with bleeding usually progress rapidly (typically unable to walk within 24-48 hours).
• Dogs with bleeding are more likely to be paralyzed and lose feeling in their toes.
• Long-term outcomes are worse in dogs with bleeding.

These points, as well as an increase in breed popularity, has resulted in a large number of recent cases in French Bulldogs, creating a growing amount of attention and concern from veterinarians. It is known that slipped disc-related hemorrhages may contribute to neurologic deterioration. The toxic effects of the hemorrhage and blood breakdown on the brain and spinal cord are suspected to contribute to the progression and severity of the neurological effects, such as lack of mobility/paralysis and loss of feeling in extremities.

What to Expect

This study allows your French Bulldog to receive the EACA treatment for their hemorrhage, as well as the surgery to correct their slipped disc. They will receive routine study diagnostics such as physical exams, neurological exams and blood draws, as well as a postoperative MRI. You will be expected to bring your Frenchie in for neurological exams for 3 days following their surgery, and after this, will be expected to give phone updates on their condition once weekly for the following 4 weeks.

Eligibility Criteria

• French Bulldogs with confirmed slipped disc (intervertebral disc herniation) with hemorrhage.
• French Bulldogs who have developed neurological issues such as back pain, paraplegia, or paralysis within the last 72 hours.

Interested?

Enroll or request more information below