#hemivertebra

[risoria]

Also while we’re on the frenchie topic - here is some information i found on a breeder’s website about merle french bulldogs. in short: this colour is not actually normal to the breed but it’s WILDLY popular because yes, it’s very beautiful. So a lot of breeders will put greed before animal welfare and irresponsibly breed these colours (I mean… if you are not actively crossing in other non-brachy breeds to save the frenchie and the pug etc, you ARE not breeding responsibly. The dogs are not healthy, by any definition. And actively breeding unhealthy animals is unethical and cruel.) which can result in severe health problems

This is from a breeder’s website, linked here^.

And this is from a french bulldog rescue, discussing the topic of fad colours - that is, unique colours that buyers pay more money for.

Link to the website here^.

As you can see, this screenshot also mentions the myriad of other health problems frenchies suffer from - BOAS is sadly just one aspect. Other conditions mentioned are allergies, intervertebral disk disease, hemivertebrae, hip dysplasia, brachycephalic airway syndrome, cleft palate.

[oediex]

There's nothing "blessed" about the latter.

Since pugs lack longer snouts and prominent skeletal brow ridges, they are susceptible to eye injuries such as proptosis, scratched corneas, and painful entropion. They also have compact breathing passageways, leaving many prone to breathing difficulties or unable to efficiently regulate their temperature through evaporation from the tongue by panting. 

Pugs are prone to brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome (BAOS) which causes respiratory distress in short-snouted breeds.

Some pugs are also born with stenotic nares (pinched nostrils) which can inhibit their breathing. In serious cases, it makes breathing even more difficult and puts added pressure on the larynx. In some cases, the dog could pass out from blocked airways. If this happens, one should inquire with their veterinarian whether or not surgery is needed to open the nostrils.

Protruding eyes and eye prolapse is a common problem among pugs and other brachycephalic breeds and can be caused by a trauma to the head or neck. While the eye can usually be pushed back into its socket by the owner or by a vet, veterinary attention is usually advisable. If the prolapse happens on a regular basis, the pug might require surgery.

Pugs have many wrinkles in their faces, so owners will often clean inside the creases to avoid irritation and infection. If this is not done, the dog may develop a condition known as skin fold dermatitis.

This breed, along with other brachycephalic dogs (e.g., boxers, bulldogs), are also prone to hemivertebrae. (...) The condition occurs when two parts of a spinal vertebra do not fuse properly while a young pug is still growing, resulting in an irregularly shaped spinal cavity which can put pressure on the spinal cord.

(outline from one of the linked sources for the latter: "Pugs commonly have deformities of the bones of the spine. These can lead to pressure on the spinal cord resulting in progressive pain and loss of hind limb function and incontinence.")

And these are only the health problems resulting from the brachycephalic skull, which results in that "blessed" MRI scan; which, as per the Wikipedia article where all these quotes come from, resulted from intense breeding of pugs in the 20th century, leading to shorter and shorter snouts, presumably for the amusement of human beings, but without any kind of regard for the well-being of the other animals involved.

This isn't blessed. It's not cute. It's torture.

Blessed scans

[myveterinaryexperience]

Pugs & BOAS

While the pug remains to be a favoured breed among families, recent studies have shown that their signature flat faces and rolls of loose skin are the result of inbreeding and selective breeding, which have made the pugs prone to all sorts of diseases.

For example, their skin folds can get damp and become breeding ground for bacteria and infection; not to mention pugs are one of the most common dog breeds to have Hemivertebrae (bulging of the spinal cord). However, their most famous defect is their respiratory issues: pugs, along with French bulldogs, British bulldogs, and many terriers, have been noted by many researchers as especially vulnerable to respiratory problems like BOAS.

BOAS, also known as Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome, is defined by the National Institutes of Health as a “chronic, lifelong, debilitating, primarily obstructive airway disease.” The term “Brachycephalic” refers to the flattened head of the dog with BOAS, as back in the day, people bred those shortened jaws to make it easier for the dogs to clamp down on prey. However, the shrunken skull now had a disproportionate amount of tissue attached to it, leading to a deformed upper and lower respiratory tract that causes respiratory difficulties.

Some of these deformities include:

* Stenotic nares— the nostrils become narrower, leading to difficulty in nose breathing and increased panting (why noisy breathing and snoring is so common within pugs and similar breeds)

* Aberrant nasopharyngeal turbinates— extension of nasal turbinates (anatomical structures in the nose) into the nasopharyngeal meatus.

* An abnormally long, thick palate (roof of the mouth)— the palate then intrudes into the airway, and interferes with air moving into the larynx.

* Everted Laryngeal Saccules — tissue just in front of the vocal cords are pulled into the windpipe, partially blocking it.

* Narrow trachea— the windpipe is abnormally narrow

(Credit to UCD Veterinary Hospital)

The causation of BOAS in breeds like pugs are mostly attributed to their

stunted head size, but Jeffery Schoenebeck at the University of Edinburgh has also proposed that these problems may be genetic. He found that the Norwich terrier, which have better proportioned skulls compared to pugs, were affected with BOAS and similar respiratory diseases. According to the Smithsonian, Schoenebeck found upon further research that there were gene mutations—especially the ADAMTS3– that could cause dogs to have “fluid retention and swelling around the lungs” when possessing two mutated alleles.

Luckily, technology like genetic screening and breathing tests for puppies can identify the individuals most likely to develop respiratory problems and thereby reduce its prevalence on future generations. Already, Schoenebeck reports that the number of Norwhich terriers coming down with BOAS and similar breathing issues were on a decline since 1990; on a related note, “Retro Pugs”— a cross between a regular pug and Jack Russel Terrier— and “Puggles— a cross between a pig and a beagle—are being bred with the intent to create healthier pugs with more normal head proportions, which may help with the respitory deformities mentioned above.

Regular Pug

(Credit to Wikipedia)

Retro-pug

(Credit to Dogtime.com)

Puggle

(Credit Kookypugs.com)

[peertechz]

The OEIS complex – clinical & radiological evaluation

Although the first description of a case of OEIS complex was reported in 1709, it was only in 1978 that Carey et al first used the term OEIS complex [1,2]. The anomaly is thought to be due to a defect in early blastogenesis or of mesodermal migration during the primitive streak period [7,8]. These defects lead to improper closure of ventral abdominal wall due to failure of convergence of four ecto-mesodermal folds (a cranial, a caudal, and two lateral) of an embryo with associated defects in the development of cloaca and urorectal septum during 4th gestational week. The cloacal membrane is composed of ectodermal and endodermal layers and it covers the region from the umbilicus to the tail portion of the embryo at the 4-mm stage. In subsequent stages, the primitive streak mesoderm invades the membrane to form the lower abdominal wall. Lack of mesoderm in the infra-umbilical abdominal wall results in omphalocele. During the 8- to the 16-mm stage, the urorectal septum meets the cloacal membrane and divides the cloacal chamber into an anterior urogenital and posterior alimentary systems. Cloacal exstrophy results when the membrane ruptures before the formation of the urogenital septum. The coexistence of cloacal exstrophy and spinal dysraphism may be explained by a single insult in the embryonic tail in early pregnancy [6]. Caudal dysgenesis interferes with somite formation resulting in defective vertebrae [9].

Because of its rarity and sporadic occurrences, some environmental and genetic factors may be responsible for its causation [6]. One study reported maternal exposure to diphenyl hydantoin and valproic acid and cigarette smoking as possible risk factors [2,6,9]. Higher incidence of OEIS in monozygotic twins than in dizygotic twins suggesting a possible genetic contribution to the occurrence of these defects was reported [10].

The OEIS complex involves multiple body systems. The classical presentation consists of omphalocele superiorly with an open plate mucosa inferiorly consisting of two posterior walls of hemibladder on either side with a central strip of ithe ntestinal mucosa [11]. Similar findings were noted in our case with the passage of meconium and stool from the protruding bowel loop in the upper part of the central bowel strip. Ambiguous genitalia is common with bilateral cryptochidism in males. In the present case, one testis was found in the hemiscrotum, but the other remained high in the inguinal canal. Renal anomalies such as agenesis, rudimentary kidney, ectopic kidney pelviureteric junction obstruction etc have been reported [12]. The congenital vertebral malformations associated with cloacal exstrophy vary from congenital scoliosis, kyphosis, abnormal lumbosacral segmentation, sacral agenesis, interpedicular lumbar widening to hemivertebra, spina bifida occulta, and myelomeningocele [13,14]. In the present case, there was terminal myelocystocele with tethered cord and syrinx formation. The baby had a partial neurological deficit in both lower limbs below the level of the knee. Talipes in association with OEIS complex is related to a tethered cord. Central nervous system anomalies are not commonly encountered in OEIS complex.

https://www.peertechzpublications.com/articles/AUR-5-136.php

[make-me-amorphous]

Crooked Inktober day 8

[camillichamone]

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Camilli Chamone | Educação Canina Baseada em Neurociência (@camilli_chamone)

Você tem um buldogue francês, um pug ou um "salsichinha"? Então, proteja a coluna deles. . #Repost @petf.oficial (@get_repost) ・・・ Minha Missão! Depois da Lesão Medular do meu Buldogue Francês - que teve paralisia temporária - tomei pra mim como Missão ter um Grupo de Apoio (WhatsApp) de Tutoras com Pets com lesão para instruir, trocar experiência, fazer postagens informativas sobre o assunto e dar apoio psicológico..... sim, esse fica extremamente abalado pq a paralisia nos assusta e nos entristece pq ela acontece repentinamente. Ficamos emocionalmente perdidas, arrasadas de ver nossos filhos de 4 Patas sem andar e o choro vem ..... compulsivamente. Sei que essa Missão está seguindo o seu rumo certo e este depoimento recente da Jacqueline Ribeiro do grupo me fez ter certeza que sim: "Faz cinco meses que o Dudu operou e sempre me senti insegura em tudo e muito perdida, depois que entrei no grupo comecei a me sentir muito mais confiante em relacao à situação do Dudu, antes não conhecia ninguém que estivesse na mesma situação que estou, então era bem difícil, passei muitas noites em claro olhando pra ele e pensando como seria amanhã e depois!!" Bem, são etapas difíceis que tentamos superar diariamente, mas estamos sempre dispostas a cuidar deles da melhor forma possível, como a nossa querida Mariana Santoro Campregher mostra o cuidado com seu Francisco nesse vídeo. Fica o alerta de todas essas Mães - nao permitam que seus Pets pulem de sofá, cama, subam e desçam escadas ou pulem pra cumprimentar..... evitem uma lesão que pode ser muito séria🙏🏻 By Valeria Elia #Lesaomedular #herniadedosco #hemivertebra #maesquecuidam #maesespeciais #pin (em Belo Horizonte, Brazil)

[drferox]

Hey can you do a breed evaluation on Pugs? I didn't see them on your list of breeds you have done/wouldn't do and is like to know wha a vet thinks of the breed.

I can! I think the reason I haven’t is that after the Breathe Like A Pug post decrying their flat faces, folks might have thought that was all there was to say about them. But there’s much more to talk about in Pugs.

Please note the disclaimer.These posts are about thebreed from a veterinary viewpoint as seen in clinicalpractice, i.e. the problems we are faced with. It’s not the be-alland end-all of the breed and is not to make a judgement about whetherthe breed is right for you. If you are asking for an opinion aboutthese animals in a veterinary setting, that is what you will get.It’s not going to be all sunshine and cupcakes, and is not intendedas a personal insult against your favorite breed. This is generaladvice for what is common, often with a scientific consensus butsometimes based on personal experiences, and is not a guarantee ofwhat your animal is going to encounter in their life.

There’s a lot to unpack in the Pug, so let’s start at the front and start with structural things, because the breed really is a structural mess.

Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome, or BAS for short, is the name we give to a collection of deformities associated with the shortening of the muzzle, with more severe forms being associated with more severe morphology. It is possible to have a shorter than average muzzle without BAS, but the shorter it is, the more likely it is.

BAS may include stenotic nares (nostrils being pinched shut), enlongated soft palate (too much flesh at the back of the throat) and everted laryngeal saccules (pockets of tissue at the larynx which pop inside out due to strong pressures of the narrow airway). All of these compound to reduce the diameter of the airway before air even reaches the lungs.

Some sources will also list hypoplastic trachea (a windpipe that is too small) and Collapsing trachea (Windpipe narrows or collapses with strong inspiration or expiration) as part of the syndrome, and gastric reflux and hiatal hernias (stomach herniating into thorax) is also associated with it due to increased pressure in the thorax as these dogs just try to breathe.

The squished up face has other complications to. Excessive facial skin folds can lead to skin fold dermatitis and pyoderma (nasty, sore infection of the skin folds) which are difficult to clear because the skin in those folds never gets a chance to air out. You can also get entropion (the eyelids rolling in to rub fur on the eyeball) which requires surgical correction. The problems with the eyeballs don’t end there though, the bug-eyes expression that many pugs end up with can result in exposure keratopathy, where the over exposed eyeballs are prone to drying out and developing corneal damage. This is only exaggerated if they also develop Keratoconjunctivitis Sica  (KCS) or Dry Eye (inadequate tear film production). They are also prone to proptosis (the eyeball popping out of its socket).

The tightly curled tail is associated with hemivertebrae (abnormal bones of the spinal column) and while the dog will manage if they’re exclusively in the tail, they often end up with some elsewhere in the spine, causing painful deformities or intervertebral disc rupture. They may also be associated with spina bifida.

The limbs are not any better. I certainly harp on about othopedic concerns in breeds like German Shepherds, but Pugs are right up there in the list of structural nightmares. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals states that 41% of these dogs have abnormal elbows or elbow dysplasia and 70% have abnormal hips or hip dysplasia. That’s atrocious, but it gets less attention than the large dog breeds because it’s relatively easier for someone to carry around their pug that can’t move well than their German Shepherd.

They are a little weird immunologically too as they are somewhat prone to demodex mange, skin allergies and atopy (allergic to everything under the sun) and a few different types of meningitis (brain inflammation) which are catastrophic and one is usually only seen in the pug.

Their high incidence of joint problems and relative difficulty breathing often makes these dogs lazy and causes them difficulty exercising, so they are prone to obesity. This is only made worse by owners expecting the dogs to be roly poly and shaped like a potato, but their obesity makes basically all of their problems worse - orthopedic, BAS especially collapsing trachea, and dermatitis in particular.

And especially in Australia, pugs commonly make up a large percentage of my heat stroke patients. They can get heat stroke just walking down the street in summer. Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome really does a number on these dogs.

And I know someone is going to bring up retromops as a version of ‘healthy pugs’, but this trend hasn’t yet reached my local population and I’m skeptical you’re going to solve all of these problems bu just breeding for a longer muzzle and better shape. You should be able to get significant improvement in the BAS and structural issues, but I would worry about loss of genetic diversity without crossing to other breeds.

[goswagcollectionfestus-blog]

What Everybody Else Does When It Comes to Are French Bulldogs Born with a Tail?

The standard French Bulldog temperament is extremely loving and loyal. When our puppies leave our house, they are sure to be updated with their shots and wormers. If you suspect your puppy may be suffering from hemivertebrae, then you have to make an appointment to see your veterinarian. 

As stated before, it's equally serious in the event the French Bulldog puppies become chilled so avoid drafts. Overall absence of a tail (agencies), congenital deficiency of all of the tail vertebrae is extremely rare in dogs. Sometimes it can prevent the dog from pooping hygienically, so it is very important to clean them every day. It has become more and more underdeveloped. It is usually docked, but many unaltered specimens are commonly encountered. 

Thus a very brief tail can impact the interaction of dog with different animals and man. Most tails don't need any exceptional care. Curly tails can become very grubby.

The Nuisances of Are French Bulldogs Born with a Tail

If not correctly exercised it's feasible for a Bulldog to develop into overweight, which might lead to heart and lung issues, together with stress on the joints. Bulldogs do not earn a great dog for the obedience enthusiast. French Bulldogs are believed to be descendants of the British Bulldog. French Bulldogs generally are most likely one of the absolute most SOCIAL and NEEDY breeds. You can get an English bulldog in several colors, except when it's purebred. An English bulldog is additionally a purebred breed which is the reason why it can be registered with AKC. 

Bulldogs are the perfect pet as they love to be in the organization of their loved ones. The French Bulldog is a small dog with a huge attitude and a tremendous heart. A French Bulldog ought to be fed a superior brand of dry or all organic meat diet. When you get a French Bulldog, you will need to accept it will probably never have a pure birth, and that they might suffer from severe back or gait problems later on. A couple things you want to learn before you get a french bulldog, to start with, keep them cool. When it has to do with bulldogs, not all bulldogs are made equal. 

The Bulldog is popularly utilized to represent England or the UK. French Bulldogs can easily live with different breeds when the right introductions are finished. Helping you to determine whether the French Bulldog is the perfect breed for you. Bulldogs, generally, do not like heat. French Bulldogs are extremely sensitive to overheating. They can be a little bullish and stubborn so it's important for owners to express their authority early on remember to use positive reinforcement techniques such as praise and treats. Because they suffer from some very serious health problems. 

Bulldogs are extremely sensitive to heat. Though they appear to be browbeating, they are all calm and forbearing. Ten decades before, there were just 670 French bulldogs registered in the united kingdom.

Introducing Are French Bulldogs Born with a Tail

Have a look at my hub Spaying Your Female Dog so you know and understand when you need to spay your dog, the reason you should spay your dog, the practice of spaying your dog, and the dangers of spaying your dog. There might be too many folks coming to observe the litter or the litter can be too big for the dog to deal with. Some dogs with hemivertebrae won't ever exhibit any symptoms whatsoever, and won't be adversely affected by the status. 

In spite of popular belief, there are in fact many distinct varieties of bulldog breeds. Several short-tailed breeds can be impacted. Obviously, there are numerous different breeds who love water. If you've got an experienced breeder working with you, they can reveal to you the ideal approach to restrain your dog. Both breeds are rather low maintenance once it comes to grooming. 

A breakdown of all you need to understand about your favourite breed of dog. There are some additional dog breeds that are pretty superior rat catchers, but the Terriers are undoubtedly a majority. Dogs, on the flip side, are the perfect remedy to any rat issue. In the event the dog does figure out how to rise he or she is going to quickly fall down after taking just a few measures. A dog needs to be seen immediately in the event the blood flow appears not to stop. 

Obviously, some dogs are right in the center of the street. If your female dog isn't going to stand to get bored there are plenty of possibilities. Male dogs might be interested in the female but she is not going to be interested as of yet. Continue reading for extra details on what things to expect and the way to assist a newly-spayed dog after surgery! If your dog is allergic to his medication, you could have difficulty searching for a substitute. 

It's also important to understand what type of dog you need and exactly what you would like to do with your dog. A fifty pound dog might be a mixture of nearly anything.

[orcinus-ocean]

The Frenchies that win by a nose

Everything copy/pasted directly off the PDE blog, link above.

The dog on the left is Arnie - a former AKC show-dog. You can read more about him here. The dog on the right is Flint, bred in the Netherlands by Hawbucks French Bulldogs - a breeder trying to establish a new, healthier template for French Bulldogs. They are both Frenchies. Both purebred. The difference is that the dog on the left has been bred to meet the current interpretation of breed standard - and the dog on the right is the result of selection for a more moderate dog by a breeder who believes that good health is more important than fashion. I posted the image on Twitter and my CRUFFA Facebook page a couple of days ago and it has already been shared thousands of times, with many people thinking it has been Photoshopped. It hasn't. I am pleased that most people are deeply shocked by Arnie's profile.  In truth, most Frenchies are not quite this extreme. But he is not totally untypical either - particularly in the US where the breed standard does not have a minimum muzzle length. Unfortunately, some people are so wedded to the type of dog seen in today's show-ring that they prefer Arnie - or are more shocked by Flint's comparatively-long muzzle. Some have even called Flint "extreme". "[I prefer] the one on the left to me it's a French bulldog and what I see and love in a French bulldog -the one on the right I don't recognise as a French bulldog," wrote one breeder. And then this: "I'd definitely own the left over right! Right is a disgusting example of the breed." As ever, what is considered "good type" changes with fashion. This Frenchie was a Champion in 1914.

And this is a famous French Bulldog from 1925.

This dog won Best of Breed at Crufts last year.

And this dog, a slight improvement, won BOB this year.

Neither of the Crufts dogs has a muzzle length anything like the 1/5th of the total head length advocated by the French Bulldog Club of England - or indeed the one-sixth the length of the head demanded in the FCI standard. They are also extremely cobby - particularly the 2016 BOB. The show Frenchie's back has shortened over the years too, robbing them of the tail they once had and likely contributing to another Frenchie problem - spinal issues.

Unfortunately, stenosis - pinched nostrils - is almost ubiquitous in the show version of the breed, adding to the respiratory risk.

We know from newly-published research that there isn't an absolute correlation between any one physical feature and breathing difficulties  (there is a panoply of contributory factors that interplay, including neck/chest girth,  intra-nasal obstruction, stenosis, trachea size and obesity).

But as David Sargan from the Cambridge BOAS research team says: "I think breeding for sound open nostrils, for longer and less wide heads, for less boxy body shapes and for less skin would all improve the [extremely brachycephalic] breeds."

The good news is that there are breeders like Hawbucks breeding for a longer-muzzled, lighter, more athletic dogs with truly open nostrils. I would urge everyone tempted by a French Bulldog to seek them out - and of course be aware that health tests are important too.

The best Frenchie breeders screen for BOAS, hemivertebrae (HV), hereditary cataracts, luxating patellas, degenerative myelopathy (DM) and skin issues/allergies. A low co-efficient of inbreeding is a plus, too - and also ask about longevity (i.e. what age dogs in the pedigree died).

(My bolding below, you need to read this)

Despite the French Bulldog Club of England's claim that Frenchies can live to 12-14 "on average", this is not true. In fact, Agria insurance data in Sweden has found that they are the shortest-living of all the breeds and the Finnish KC's database documents an average age of death of just five years old. It's possible that UK dogs live a bit longer, but essentially they're all from the same stock, so it's unlikely to be much longer.

I am an avid collector of pictures of more moderate Frenchies.  Here are a few of them (I posted them above, instead of below). The first is Flint's mum, Yara - and the last another pic of  Flint. Enjoy!

[astressedvetstudent]

progressive paralysis/ plegia

Neoplasia = extradural/ intradural/ intramedullary - poor prognosis

Degenerative myelopathy = older large breed (GSD) with slowly progressive pelvic limb ataxia and no spinal pain. Rule out IVDD. Definitive diagnosis is on PM. Poor prognosis - treat with physiotherapy. Genetic testing available.

Congenital vertebral body malformation = hemivertebrae/ butterfly vertebrae. Generally brachycephalics, usually T7-8. May be asymptomatic - clinical signs depends on degree of kyphosis. Diagnosis = radiography - see below.

Hansen type 2 IVDD is a differential - see previous post.

Cervical spondylomyelopathy is a differential - see next post.

[juniperpublisherscasestudies]

Juniper Publishers- Open Access Journal of Case Studies

Posterior Thoracolumbar Hemivertebra Resection and Fusion with a Biphasic Calcium Phosphate Bone Graft with a Novel Submicron Surface Topography

Authored by Faheem Sandhu

Abstract

Hemivertebra deformity and tethered cord syndrome are rather rare spinal anomalies and are not frequently reported in adults. The literature reports most cases occurring in children-with hemivertebra occurring in approximately 3-10 of 1000 births as a commonly recognized cause of congenital scoliosis in the thoracic and lumbar spine. Deformity related to the hemivertebra may progress quickly in the early years of life, or it may progress slowly into young adulthood. However, at some point, the negative effects on the spinal cord and the coronal and sagittal balance are likely to require surgical correction involving either anterior–posterior fusion or posterior resection with fusion. Surgeons face many challenges in these surgical cases. One such challenge is having an adequate supply of autograft available for such complex, multi-segment procedures while avoiding additional procedures and increasing operative time. Identifying the most appropriate bone graft is important and the science behind the graft selected should be considered carefully. In recent years, the study of osteoimmunology has demonstrated the effects of the bidirectional interaction between bone cells and the immune system on bone development. In this report, we discuss the case of an adult female patient with a history of tethered cord release and known kyphoscoliosis presenting with a thoracolumbar hemivertebra at T12. The surgical treatment included a posterior resection and posterolateral fusion using this bone graft with a novel submicron surface topography and the radiological fusion findings observed in situ at 6 weeks post-surgery.

Keywords: Hemivertebra deformity, Congenital scoliosis, Osteoimmunology, Immune system, Lumbar spine, Mesenchymal stem cells, Topography

Introduction

Hemivertebra deformity and tethered cord syndrome are rather rare spinal anomalies and are not commonly reported in adults [1,2]. The literature reports most cases occurring in children with hemivertebra occurring in approximately 3-10 of 1000 births as a commonly recognized cause of congenital scoliosis in the thoracic and lumbar spine [3,4]. The deformity is the result of the failure of the vertebra to develop fully, which causes abnormal shaping of one or more affected vertebral bodies, or sometimes a failure of vertebral segmentation. Progression of hemivertebra may be rapid in the early years of life, or it may simply progress slowly into young adulthood. Nevertheless, at some point, the negative effects on the spinal cord and the coronal and sagittal balance often require surgical correction involving either anterior–posterior fusion or posterior resection with fusion. Surgeons face several challenges in these surgical cases, one of which is having an adequate supply of autograft available for such complex, multi-segment procedures. Another challenge for surgeons comes in identifying the most scientifically advanced bone graft alternative for the procedure to avoid added operating time and the known complications inherent in harvesting autograft [5]. The synthetic calcium phosphate bone graft closely resembles human cancellous bone and has an exceptional safety profile and has proven to be a cost-effective alternative to autograft [6-8].

The body’s natural response to tissue injury caused by spinal surgery is the upregulation of pro-inflammatory macrophages (“classically activated M1 macrophages”) which are the first-responders of the immune system. If that inflammatory response becomes chronic there is a risk of fibrosis, non-union and the development of a pseudarthrosis in spine fusion defects. The unique needle-shaped submicron surface of this novel biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) polarizes naïve monocytes to the pro-healing and anti-inflammatory M2 phenotype of macrophage, which leads to the upregulation of mesenchymal stem cells and the formation of bone rather than scar tissue [9].

In preclinical studies, this BCP has been shown to promote bone formation, even in soft tissue, without the need for added cells or growth factors [9]. This novel BCP bone graft is designed to mimic the porous, trabecular structure of cancellous bone and bone formation takes place throughout the BCP bone graft leading to a uniform, solid, and stable fusion which has been found in clinically-relevant animal studies [10,11].

The report described herein is that of an adult female patient with a thoracolumbar hemivertebra surgically treated with resection and posterolateral fusion using this novel bone graft with submicron surface topography and the radiological fusion findings observed in situ at 6 weeks post-surgery.

Case Description

The patient is a 54-year-old female nurse with a history of tethered cord release and known kyphoscoliosis with T12 hemivertebra who presented with progressive urinary incontinence and lower extremity weakness/numbness over the past year. The surgery included a planned resection of a segmented T12 hemivertebra with shortening of the spine and T8-L3 fusion.

Surgical Procedure

A standard posterior resection of the hemivertebra was performed at T12 along with curve correction at T8-L3. Following a midline incision, the hemivertebra and posterior spinal elements to be fused were identified. Pedicle screws were placed from T8 to L3, omitting the T12 and the right L1 screws due to atretic pedicles. Removal of the hemivertebra and decompression were carried out carefully at T12. Pre-contoured rods were secured to the screws. Decortication of the posterior elements was completed, and MagnetOs bone graft was placed over the decorticated bone along the lateral gutters from T8-L3. BCP granules were mixed with morselized local autograft from the excised hemivertebra and spinous processes. The entire procedure was performed under neuro-monitoring to continuously assess and prevent damage to neural structures.

Postoperative Course

The patient had an initial uncomplicated postoperative course but developed increased pain and swelling around her incision at four weeks that increased over the next two weeks. She was seen at this time in the clinic with complaints of incisional pain and lower extremity paresthesias. Her wound was intact, but tender to palpation and there was fluctuance in the soft tissue. A CT scan was taken to evaluate for a possible seroma. The CT scan confirmed the presence of a seroma while also demonstrating a considerable fusion mass. The patient was taken back to the OR for the evacuation of the seroma. During the evacuation procedure, exploration of the fusion mass was carried out at the same time, which revealed the BCP granules to already be quite solidly fused.

Discussion

A wedge-shaped hemivertebra is known to lead to a higher risk of the progression of scoliosis deformity as was presented in this patient along with associated neurologic findings. Resection with instrumented posterolateral fusion corrects the curvature and provides stability to the involved vertebral segments. A harvest of local, or iliac crest bone graft in sufficient volume for a multi-level fusion procedure is often prohibitive due to the volume of autograft bone required for each of the levels to be fused, as was the case for the patient described herein. Although synthetic bone graft options have historically performed less well compared to autograft [12], this case exhibits the benefits associated with the use of this biphasic calcium phosphate with needle-shaped submicron surface topography in achieving a reliable and solid fusion.

The outcome reported in this case of a middle-aged female patient that progressed to successful fusion early in the postoperative course, not only radiologically, but also upon manual confirmation during the subsequent surgical procedure, further demonstrates that this BCP bone graft with needle-shaped submicron surface topography is an effective bone graft extender for use in posterolateral spine fusion [13].

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[peertechz]

The OEIS complex – clinical & radiological evaluation

Although the first description of a case of OEIS complex was reported in 1709, it was only in 1978 that Carey et al first used the term OEIS complex [1,2]. The anomaly is thought to be due to a defect in early blastogenesis or of mesodermal migration during the primitive streak period [7,8]. These defects lead to improper closure of ventral abdominal wall due to failure of convergence of four ecto-mesodermal folds (a cranial, a caudal, and two lateral) of an embryo with associated defects in the development of cloaca and urorectal septum during 4th gestational week. The cloacal membrane is composed of ectodermal and endodermal layers and it covers the region from the umbilicus to the tail portion of the embryo at the 4-mm stage. In subsequent stages, the primitive streak mesoderm invades the membrane to form the lower abdominal wall. Lack of mesoderm in the infra-umbilical abdominal wall results in omphalocele. During the 8- to the 16-mm stage, the urorectal septum meets the cloacal membrane and divides the cloacal chamber into an anterior urogenital and posterior alimentary systems. Cloacal exstrophy results when the membrane ruptures before the formation of the urogenital septum. The coexistence of cloacal exstrophy and spinal dysraphism may be explained by a single insult in the embryonic tail in early pregnancy [6]. Caudal dysgenesis interferes with somite formation resulting in defective vertebrae [9].

Because of its rarity and sporadic occurrences, some environmental and genetic factors may be responsible for its causation [6]. One study reported maternal exposure to diphenyl hydantoin and valproic acid and cigarette smoking as possible risk factors [2,6,9]. Higher incidence of OEIS in monozygotic twins than in dizygotic twins suggesting a possible genetic contribution to the occurrence of these defects was reported [10].

The OEIS complex involves multiple body systems. The classical presentation consists of omphalocele superiorly with an open plate mucosa inferiorly consisting of two posterior walls of hemibladder on either side with a central strip of ithe ntestinal mucosa [11]. Similar findings were noted in our case with the passage of meconium and stool from the protruding bowel loop in the upper part of the central bowel strip. Ambiguous genitalia is common with bilateral cryptochidism in males. In the present case, one testis was found in the hemiscrotum, but the other remained high in the inguinal canal. Renal anomalies such as agenesis, rudimentary kidney, ectopic kidney pelviureteric junction obstruction etc have been reported [12]. The congenital vertebral malformations associated with cloacal exstrophy vary from congenital scoliosis, kyphosis, abnormal lumbosacral segmentation, sacral agenesis, interpedicular lumbar widening to hemivertebra, spina bifida occulta, and myelomeningocele [13,14]. In the present case, there was terminal myelocystocele with tethered cord and syrinx formation. The baby had a partial neurological deficit in both lower limbs below the level of the knee. Talipes in association with OEIS complex is related to a tethered cord. Central nervous system anomalies are not commonly encountered in OEIS complex.

OEIS complex is difficult to diagnose prenatally and all the abnormalities in the fetus may not be clear until a thorough postnatal evaluation [15]. The major criteria for the prenatal diagnosis include non visualization of fetal bladder, infraumbilical anterior abdominal wall defect, omphalocele and myelomeningocele [15,16]. The minor criteria include lower extremity abnormalities (talipes), renal anomalies, ascites, widened pubic arches, narrow thorax, kypho-scoliosis, hydrocephalus and single umbilical artery. Presence of omphalocele and spinal defects on prenatal ultrasonography strongly suggest OEIS complex.

[the-whoofwhoof]

Boston Terrier vs French Bulldog

Numerous individuals confound the Boston Terrier and the French Bulldog. While the two dogs have a comparative appearance, they couldn't be more unique. In the event that you are torn and can't choose which variety of dog you need to embrace, there are a couple of things that you should think about each breed. In the event that you analyze the two varieties intently, it could make it simpler to choose which breed would be best for you. If you looking for best pet grooming in delhi visit to our website

Upkeep

Both the Boston Terrier and the French Bulldog require almost no upkeep with regards to his prepping needs. Since their requirements are not requesting, they are an incredible dog for you on the off chance that you would prefer not to invest the energy and cash on ordinary visits to the custodian. Likewise, the two dogs will shed negligibly. It is insignificant to the point that both of these varieties are incredible on the off chance that you would prefer not to stress over vacuuming your home and your vehicle regularly.

Preparing

With regards to preparing your dog, the Boston Terrier is a lot simpler to prepare. This is an extraordinary variety in the event that you are a first-time dog proprietor or on the off chance that you don't have a lot of time to place into preparing your dog. On the off chance that you are an exceptionally tolerant individual and you have the opportunity to prepare your dog, you should go with the French Bulldog. Since these dogs can be so hard to prepare, you may have to take him to an acquiescence school to make them act appropriately. If you are searching best dog grooming in delhi contact to whoof whoof.

Watchdog Ability

The Boston Terrier is incredible for keeping an eye out for interlopers. On the off chance that there is an interloper present, he will bark to alarm his proprietor that there is somebody in the home. He won't, in any case, attempt to shield his family. The French Bulldog will alarm his proprietor and shield him from an undesirable interloper. On the off chance that you are awkward with your dog utilizing viciousness to secure you, the Boston Terrier would be the better variety.

Great With Kids

Of the two varieties, the Boston Terrier is better with youngsters. On the off chance that you are searching for a dog who will coexist incredible with your kids and they can grow up together, the Boston Terrier is the better variety.

Exercise Needs

With regards to work out, the Boston Terrier and the French Bulldog require light exercise. In contrast to specific varieties, these two needn't bother with a long, energetic run. Simply a short walk would adequately be to keep him glad. In the event that you are away grinding away throughout the day, both of these varieties would be astounding.

Size

With regards to the size of the two varieties, the French Bulldog is more modest than the Boston Terrier. The Boston Terrier can develop to be up to 17 inches tall and he can weigh as much as 25 pounds. The French Bulldog can develop to be 13 inches tall and he can weigh as much as 28 pounds.

Future

The Boston Terrier is known to live more than the French Bulldog. The normal future for the Boston Terrier is 14 years while the normal future of the French Bulldog is 11 years of age.  If you are searching best dog grooming in delhi contact to whoof whoof.

Wellbeing

With regards to both variety's wellbeing, the Boston Terrier has no significant wellbeing concerns. The French Bulldog, in any case, is known for having a prolonged delicate sense of taste, intervertebral plate degeneration, stenotic nares, and hemivertebrae. With regards to the chance of the dogs putting on a lot of weight, the Boston Terrier has a moderate possibility, while there is an awesome possibility that the French Bulldog would. This implies keeping him on an exacting eating regimen. At times, the two dogs can experience the ill effects of deafness and distichiasis, and the French Bulldog frequently creates waterfalls. Neither one of the dogs is inclined to over the top slobbering and neither one of the dogs is hypoallergenic.

Attributes

Each dog has attributes that vary than the other. The Boston Terrier is loving, forceful, delicate, neighborly, canny, and vivacious. The French Bulldog is additionally tender, and he is likewise bright, energetic, steadfast, social, and calm. With regards to yapping, the Boston Terrier will bark every so often, while the French Bulldog will seldom bark. In the event that you are searching for a calm dog, the French Bulldog is the better decision.

In the event that you are conflicted between the French Bulldog and the Boston Terrier, it is a smart thought to do your exploration on the two dogs before you pick the one that would best find a place with your family, your way of life and your requirements.  If you looking for best pet grooming in delhi visit to our website

[drferox]

I did a search on your blog but couldn't find anything. Have you made a post about French bulldogs?

Haven’t yet, but that’s about to change.

French Bulldogs, or Frenchies as they’re often called, are becoming increasingly popular here, which I personally find frustrating. People, especially young families with children, are purchasing these dogs often for around $3000 without any idea about their likely health complications or the preventatives that would benefit them, so often end up spending double that to protect the health of their new family member.

Please note the disclaimer.These posts are about the breed from a veterinary viewpointas seen in clinical practice, i.e. the problems we are faced with.It’s not the be-all and end-all of the breed and is not to make ajudgement about whether the breed is right for you. If you are askingfor an opinion about these animals in a veterinary setting, that iswhat you will get. It’s not going to be all sunshine and cupcakes,and is not intended as a personal insult against your favorite breed.This is general advice for what is common, often with a scientificconsensus but sometimes based on personal experiences, and is not aguarantee of what your animal is going to encounter in their life.

First on the list is that French Bulldogs can be very, very brachycephalic. They are equally as problematic as pugs in this regard, however they haven’t endured as much bad press about this unfortunate and unnecessary trait.

French Bulldogs have been breeding towards flatter and flatter faces for aesthetics, with no regard for the welfare of the animal. Individuals with a nose were considered ‘incorrect’ and as a result we have dogs that have stenotic nares, elongated soft palates and protruding nasal turbinates. These dogs routinely benefit from brachycephalic airway surgery, which might set the owner back another $2k or so.

We can, and should, be breeding these dogs to have longer noses and more open nostrils. It’s entirely possible to do without the 'extermination’ of the breed, but it needs public pressure to happen. As long as people keep paying big bucks for these flat faced critters, they will continue to be bred. When the public prioritizes the health of the individual dog and demands dogs with a nose, they will become more common.

Consider these two examples.

They’re both french bulldogs, but the second has a longer nose, wider nostrils and is less welfare compromised than the first. Still not perfect, but better. (Image source 1, Image source 2)

Now, let’s look at skulls of this breed.

(Skull source 1, Skull source 2) You can see how abnormal and un-dog-like these skulls and their airways really are, but the second skull which at least has a small nose is distinctly less mangled-looking.

That's not to say that dogs that currently exist don't deserve affection, but it's not what we as responsible humans should be looking to encourage going forward into the future.

Their bulldog shape, with boxy head and narrow hips, means that the majority of these dogs are brought into the world with a combination of AI and caesareans, which leads into another ethical debate.

This breed will occasionally throw pups with cleft lips or cleft palates, though they're not seen often outside of breeding practices because they're generally not adopted out in that state.

Structurally these dogs are prone to hemivertebrae, a spinal malformation which may be associated with the 'screw tail' trait, and intervertebral disk disease, which can result in anything from pain through to complete paralysis and can cause owners to spend around $7000 on surgery to fix.

Medial luxating patellas, a condition where the kneecap pops or stays out of joint, is also fairly common, though less life threatening and less than half an expensive to treat surgically, but these dogs are often affected in both knees so it's not much of a saving.

Like many brachycephalic breeds, French Bulldogs can suffer from Entropion, where the eyelid rolls inwards to rub furred skin against the eyeball. This is irritating, painful and can lead to eye ulcers, and is best treated, again, surgically.

They are also prone to cherry eye, where the tear gland of the third eyelid prolapses, which yet again is treated surgically.

(You might, at this point, be thinking 'Gee that's an awful lot of surgery that might be required for an expensive purebred dog!' and you would be correct.)

While this breed has a host of other things that can go wrong with their eyes, corneal ulcers are the most common. These eye ulcers can result from irritation, such as foreign objects or hairy eyelids rubbing against the eyeball, or from exposure keratopathy where sometimes thee eyelids don't completely close properly over the eyeball, leaving a strip in the middle that dries out.

They are also reported to be prone to hypothyroidism, though I haven't yet seen this clinically, I suspect it's because most of the Frenchies I treat are too young to have developed it yet.

Presenting the increasingly popular French Bulldog everyone!

[biomedres]

journal of scientific and technical research - BJSTR Journal

Identification of Microdeletion of 7q36.1-qter in Fetal Hemivertebrae with Scoliosis by Xiaofang Sun* in Biomedical Journal of Scientific & Technical Research https://biomedres.us/fulltexts/BJSTR.MS.ID.001876.php

The 7q36 microdeletion has been identified in patients with variant phenotypes including sacral agenesis, holoprosencephaly and intellectual disability. Here we describe a case of fetus with hemivertebrae and scoliosis and detected a 6.42 Mb pure microdeletion at 7q36.1-qter by chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) that was not determined by traditional karyotyping. This microdeletion was confirmed by Fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) assay. Accurate breakpoints of the deletion in this case were used to establish correlations between microdeletion at 7q36.1-q36.3 and the accompanied phenotypes, hemivertebrae deformity, which is rarely found in monosomy 7q36.1-qter. Our study identified and described an important relationship between fetal hemivertebrae with scoliosis and 7q36.1-qter microdeletion overlap with MNXI and SHH. Congenital scoliosis (CS), a lateral curvature of the spine resulted from vertebral defects leading to a failure of vertebral formation and vertebral segmentation, occurs in about 1 per 1,000 live births, might be caused by variant factors such as environmental changes, genetic variations or both [1]. The major forms of vertebral defects include block vertebrae, hemivertebrae, butterfly and wedged vertebra, and unsegmented bars. Hemivertebrae usually represents an extra vertebral segment which is due to complete failure of vertebral formation and is the most common cause of CS. 

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[littlefrenchdog]

Do French Bulldogs Have Health Problems?

The French Bulldog, they seem to be everywhere nowadays. Well, there is a good reason for this, and that's how adorable this breed can be. Being the fourth most common dog throughout the United States as well as the second most frequently registered pedigree in the United Kingdom. Their popularity seems to have no end. But is there a cost. Scientist says there is in a recently published paper. As we breed these dogs to the demand, their genetics lose out in the end. https://cgejournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40575-018-0057-9 French Bulldogs are renowned for their long list of genetic health troubles. When people start looking into own a French Bulldog they find out, they are not cheap in many different aspects. Many owners who have not done there homework end up giving there Frenchie up for adoption when faced with mounting bills. Here is a list of the most prevalent French Bulldog genetic health issues to assist you in understanding some of the challenges that might be faced with being a Frenchie owner. Main Health Issues Conjunctivitis Dysplasia Of The Hips or Elbows Tracheal Collapse Brachycephalic Respiratory Syndrome Stenotic Nares Deafness Heat Stress Laryngeal Collapse Intervertebral Disc Disease Hemivertebrae Degenerative Myelopathy Patellar Luxation Distichiasis Von Willebrand’s Disease Cataracts Cleft Palate Thyroid conditions

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the skin that encompasses the front of the eyeball. Generally referred to as pink eye, conjunctivitis is defined by symptoms including swollen eyelids, red eyes, narrowing, and discharge from the eyes. It may be triggered by a multitude of factors, such as allergic reactions, dry eyes, or any other allergens. Symptoms  Narrowing of the eyelidsEyes with hard or runny dischargeRed eyesRubbing there eyes

Dysplasia Of The Hips or Elbows

Hip dysplasia is a disorder of the Hip socket and ball joints, it also can happen in the elbow joints. The skeletal structure has not formed correctly, so two parts do not align correctly. This can cause pain and discomfort later in life as well as have the onset of hip or elbow arthritis and significantly limiting the dog's activity. Symptoms Reduced activity Trouble trying to standPain and sensitivity around the hips or elbowsUnable to jump or climb https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=okhojKOriEY Hip dysplasia in french bulldog

Tracheal Collapse

Tracheal collapse is a severe, progressive trachea or "windpipe" disorder. It is often triggered by chronic respiratory diseases, Cushing's disease, or cardiovascular disease. It may be genetically determined at birth or may develop over time. Symptoms The tracheal collapse is a genetic disorder, but it's not always genetically determined at birth. It may grow at any period, but the median age it occurs in about six to seven years of age. It presents itself as a bluish tinge to the gums of the dog.Difficulty in breathingHas difficulty in breathing in activities or exercisesHooping sounding cough

Brachycephalic Respiratory Syndrome

Bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed. This includes the French Bulldog. Put simply, brachycephalic implies "short-headed" or "flat-faced" and relates to the distinct look of the Bulldog breeds facial features. This condition is what allows you French Bulldog to make all of those snorting noise and to snore. In severe instances, this can severely impede your Frenchie's capacity to breathe correctly. Brachycephalic Syndrome relates to a variety of circumstances. These are listed below. Stenotic Nares Elongated soft palate Overall, these circumstances usually lead to loud breathing, activity intolerance, and gagging. It's essential to maintain your French Bulldog weight in a healthy range, as being overweight will just exuberated the situation. Here is a study on the effects of Brachycephalic Respiratory Syndrome on the French Bulldog: Characterisation of Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome in French Bulldogs Using Whole-Body Barometric Plethysmography https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EnjVIFf-ECQ Report: brachycephalic dog health problems

Stenotic Nares

What is Stenotic Nares? Simple it means pinched or narrow nostrils. Many bulldog breeds suffer from this disease, which can lead to breathing difficulties via the nose, snorting, and snoring. Stenotic nares come in varying degrees of impact on your dog. Some may be minorly closed to server cases where the nostrils almost closed. This disease can severely decrease the standard of living of your Frenchie, making it hard for them to practice, endure heat, and breathe. So where does stenotic nares come from? As mention before this breed is genetically predisposed to brachycephalic which comes hand in hand with stenotic nares. Unfortanilty a puppy with closed nostrils will not grow out of it. Look at the breeder's history of dogs and the puppies parents to see if this is a handed down trait. Because they are hereditary and present at birth, the best way to prevent this would be to discover a puppy with two parents who do not have a severe stenotic nose. How to treat stenotic nares. If your French Bulldog is suffering from stenotic nares, your vet would most probably recommend a straightforward surgical procedure to widen them.

Deafness

Hearing loss or deafness is becoming a very prevalent health concern in French Bulldogs. It may be heritable owing to genetic defects or may grow over time in elderly dogs. Like so many other animals with a white coat, French Bulldogs may suffer from deafness in one or both ears. Therefore it is essential to guarantee that any Frenchie you purchase can hear at least from one ear well. Imagine the mental anguish if you discover that your pet is deaf in both ears once you have assumed responsibility for its future and have become attached to it. There should not be a problem at all if the dog can hear from one ear, so do not let that put you off. There is a test for deafness called the BAER test. The experiment can be performed once the pups are 6 weeks old. Electrodes linked to a computer are capable of measuring the brain's reaction to noise. When the puppy reaches this age, the hearing loss in those having inherited the disease will develop.

Heat Stress

Heat stress in French Bulldogs is among the most common conditions of this type of dog. Your Frenchie will usually have a difficult time breathing and controlling their core body temperature due to their flat faces. The primary cause of heat exhaustion, as well as its progress to heatstroke, is leaving your Frenchie in a hot vehicle. On even a moderate day (75-80 degrees F), the temperature within the vehicle can rise up to 130 degrees rather rapidly. Leaving the window ajar does not stop the build-up of heat. Leaving your Frenchie in a vehicle on a hot day is a hazard to the dog's life. If you live in a warmer region, it's even more essential that you take care of the heat stress of your French Bulldog. Symptoms Excessive panting Staggering Weakness DiarrheaConvulsions FaintingRed gums Excessive panting Rapid heart rate Excessive drooling

Laryngeal Collapse

Laryngeal collapse happens when the stiffness and support of the laryngeal cartilage (voicebox) is lost, allowing the larynx to fold and collapse. Where this happens, there's an obstruction that stops the ordinary movement of air into to the trachea. The debilitating impact of pushing and pulling air via their deformed upper airways weakens, fatigues, and ultimately deforms the cartilage. In rare cases, cartilage may break and collapse after trauma to the throat. This disease generally occurs in dogs older than two years old but may occur earlier in brachycephalic races such as the French Bulldog. Symptoms Difficulty breathing after direct trauma to the upper throat. Increased effort or breathing difficulties, especially in a dog with a record of upper respiratory issues. Treatment Surgery to shorten the elongated soft palateSurgery to enlarge the nostrils Excessive, obstructive tissue removal within the neck Sections of collapsed cartilages will have to be removed surgically

Intervertebral Disc Disease

This disorder is when discs between the vertebrae in the spine swell or herniate into the spinal cord. These discs push the nerves, causing discomfort, nerve damage, as well as paralysis. Serious harm to the discs in the spinal cord can be caused by hard impacts, including jumping and landing awkwardly. Symptoms Muscle convulsions of the back or neck Decreased appetite as well as the amount of activity Crying out in discomfort Stressed behavior Stiffness of the neck Decreased range of motion of the hind legs Tense abdomenLoss of ability to urinate Treatment If this was the first incidence and the spinal cord has minor damage, moderate treatment like cage rest, containment, and pain medication can be an available choice. For any major damage: depending on severity of the damage, drugs can be used. Some common drugs usually involve nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroid medications. When the damage is undeniably serious and the medication-driven therapy is inadequate, surgery might be necessary.

Hemivertebrae

Hemivertebrae in dogs is a heritable bone malformation shaping the spine of the dog's vertebrae. Hereditary means that if the dog has the condition, much of the time, their parents either have the disorder actively or have passed the gene silently. The condition causes a distorted wedge shape where the spine ought to be straight. It can lead to spinal cord twisting and spinal compression. Compression of the spinal cord is a severe disorder as the spinal cord is the main component of the nervous system; it can lead to nerve impulses that are unable to convey their signals to the intended destination. Hemivertebrae is quite common in French Bulldogs as this study shows: Heritability of hemivertebrae in the French bulldog using an animal threshold model Symptoms The weakening of the back legs Incontinence and incoordination Back PainParalysis Treatment The spine on the x-rays will look malformed in such a manner that it is bent, twisted to the side, or curved inward. Deformed vertebrae, such as wedges that cause the back to curve abnormally can also be seen. Dogs with light or mild hemivertebrae can use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugsDogs with moderate to severe instances, latest developments in medicine have made it possible to treat the spine by surgery, either to stabilize the spine, to decompress it, or both.

Degenerative Myelopathy

Degenerative myelopathy is a uncommon, progressive spinal cord illness that generally occurs in elderly dogs between 5 and 12 years of age. It is a condition whereby the nerves along the spinal cord become inflamed, creating what is frequently defined as flare-ups. These flare-ups, which are usually not painful, are connected with the nerves that surround the spinal column of the dog. Over time, these nerves are depleted of blood and ultimately die. When this process repeats, again and again, it creates more nerve damage; as the disease moves through the dog's body. Symptoms There are three distinct stages of Degenerative Myeloptahy Early Stage Progressive weakness of the hind limbsWorn nailsDifficulty risingStumblingKnuckling of the toesScuffing hind feetWearing of the inner digits of the rear pawsLoss of muscle in the rear legsTremors of the rear legs Late Stages Persistent early stagesUrinary and fecal incontinenceEventual front leg weaknessMental stress and anxietyPressure soresInability to riseMuscle atrophyPoor hygienePneumoniaDepressionInfection/sepsisConstipationOrgan failure Final Stage Difficulty breathingProlonged seizuresUncontrollable vomiting/diarrheaSudden collapseProfuse bleeding Crying/whining from pain Treatment Medication with aminocaproic acid, vitamin supplements and exercise has been suggested, but the safety and effectiveness of these medicines have not been documented. Physiotherapy, acupuncture, or supportive braces may also be useful.

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Patellar Luxation

Luxating implies "out of location" or "dislocated." Therefore, a luxurious patella is a kneecap which moves out of its ordinary place. It usually resumes its usual anatomical alignment after only a short period. The dog would only feel pain as soon as the joint is dislocated; afterwards, they rarely notice any discomfort. Symptoms Prolonged abnormal back leg movementOccasional skipping when walkingBack leg lamenessSudden lameness Treatment Fortunately, patellar luxation, surgery has shown to be highly efficient even in the most severe cases. In 89% of instances, the primary function would be restored, and discomfort alleviated.

Distichiasis

Distichiasis is rather widespread for all dogs. Distichiasis is a disorder in which new hair grows out of the eyelash region. It occurs when two or more hairs grow out from the opening of the Meibomian gland. Such hairs do not need to be there. In certain instances, such additional hairs might be lengthy and rigid and aggravate the eye, culminating in a corneal ulcer. The seriousness of the issue depends on how rigid the hair is, how long it is, where it is situated, and how many new hairs there may be. Symptoms Your Frenchie may try to keep there eye closed all the time or keep trying to touch it. Cornea ulcers Eye discharge Eye pain Eye inflammation Excessive blinking or squinting Treatment There are quite several treatment choices, and the decision of your vet will usually rely on how many new hairs are involved and what equipment the veterinary facility has. General anesthesia is generally required. Every now and then, a somewhat cooperative dog may allow therapy with a local anesthetic, but this would be highly uncommon. Cryosurgery freezes the lid margin at the locations in which there are new hairs. Surgery will thoroughly remove the hair. Electrolysis will permanently remove the hair also.

Von Willebrand’s Disease

Von Willebrand's Disease is a rare genetic, chronic bleeding disorder which is comparable to human hemophilia. It is triggered by the impairment of the blood adhesive glycoprotein needed for normal platelet clotting. Symptoms  NosebleedsBlood in the feces (black or bright red blood)Bloody urineBleeding from the gumsBleeding from the vagina (excessively) Treatment Most dogs do not require therapy only if surgery is scheduled or injuries has happened. Healthy dog blood products can prevent excess blood loss in dogs with. Whether the liquid portion of the blood (plasma), the whole blood (plasma plus blood cells) or the concentration of clotting factors (cryoprecipitate) can be used.If regular transfusions are needed, it is essential to match the blood of the patient with the blood of the donor.If a dog is discovered to have lousy thyroid function, supplementation with thyroid is suggested.

Cataracts

Cataracts pertain to the cloudiness of the lens of the eye. Cloudiness may vary from full to partial transparency. Cataracts are a chronic condition that can lead to blindness if not handled rapidly. In instances in which cataracts are caused by diabetes, development becomes even faster. Symptoms  Loss of vision or trouble of seeing in poorly lit regions Vision impairment Intolerance to light The lens of the eye becomes opaque and white https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bCcM53vJjik French Bulldog 3 months after Cataract Surgery (Right eye) Treatment The only efficient therapy for cataracts in dogs is the removal of the lens by surgery. This requires substituting the eye lens with an intraocular lens, and when this surgery is undertaken, the cataract will not grow again. The whole operation is conducted by ultrasound, with a percentage of success of between 90 and 95 per cent.

Cleft Palate

Cleft palate in French Bulldogs is a genetic condition frequently seen in brachycephalic dogs. It is defined by an unusual opening on the roof of the mouth. Throughout fetal development, the two parts of the palate (the roof of the mouth) do not come with each other and fuse. It leads to an opening between both the nasal cavity and the mouth. Symptoms Respiratory difficulty Weight loss Slow growth Difficulty nursing Aspiration pneumonia  Treatment If selected, the treatment of cleft palate mainly depends on both the size and position of the deficiency. Also, the extent to which the impacted puppy is presently affected. Cleft palate surgical procedures have historically endured a low success 

Thyroid conditions

The thyroid is a gland in your dog's neck, which generates the thyroxine hormone (T4) together with numerous other hormones. Such hormones perform an integral part in your dog's metabolism and therefore can cause significant issues if they are not produced at ordinary quantities. Hypothyroidism A condition called hypothyroidism can happen in French Bulldogs, the dog may not naturally produce enough of the thyroid hormones. Hypothyroidism leads your dog's metabolism to slow down, that can lead to the following symptoms. Symptoms Cold intolerance Exercise intolerance Obesity Lethargy Thickening of the skin Reproductive disturbances Changes in coat and skin Treatment The excellent news is that this disease is not life-threatening. Plus, it's pretty simple and cheap to treat. Your dog would have to take oral drugs every day for the remainder of his lives though. Hyperthyroidism Hyperthyroidism of French Bulldogs happens when the body of your dog generates far too much thyroid hormone. This may boost the metabolism to a hazardous amount. Although this is somewhat uncommon in dogs. It is generally severe when it impacts dogs. Thyroid cancer is the leading cause of hyperthyroidism in dogs. Symptoms Vomiting Increased thirst Congestive heart failure Heart murmurs Tachycardia  Cardiomegaly Diarrhea Enlargement of the thyroid gland Increased urination Increased appetite Weight loss Treatment When hyperthyroidism arises from a diet that includes elevated concentrations of hormones, a dietary shift is generally adequate to correct the condition. Regrettably, its more prevalent for hyperthyroidism to be caused by aggressive thyroid cancer. Which is often fatal. Therapy in this situation will rely on the size of the tumour and if it has metastatic. Therapy may involve the partial extraction of the tumour or the removal of the entire thyroid gland. This will rely on what your vet deems to be the most suitable course of action.

Consider Getting Pet Insurance.

The average price of pet insurance varies from as small as $59 to more than $146 per month. Investing in pet insurance is undoubtedly a smart option when it comes to French Bulldogs. The price of insurance is usually based on your Frenchie's age, present health, and the amount of coverage you need. Exemptions may be made in respect of prior-existing conditions or health circumstances which are not covered by this. We suggest that you insure your Frenchie as quickly as possible, ideally when it's less than a year old. You would like to get insurance before the first hereditary condition manifests its symptoms, so you're going to miss coverage if this happens.

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