Our Story: Bridging Patients to France’s Best Spine Surgeons
About FRANCHIR
We designed the care journey for you that we would have wanted for ourselves.
FRANCHIR is a pioneering spine surgery network in France,
connecting international patients to the country’s best neurosurgeons and spine specialists. Born from personal conviction, not commercial interest, we believe no patient should choose between endless waiting and difficult journeys to access world-class spine surgery in France.
Erik Boulard,
Bridging Healthcare Excellence
An experienced healthcare entrepreneur, specifically in spine health, Erik has dedicated his career to bridging the gap between people’s needs and excellent solutions. His expertise is recognized by French surgeons, for whom preserving patient mobility is a priority.
erik.boulard@franchir.eu
Docteur Gilles Dubois,
A Leader in Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery
Dr. Gilles Dubois, a specialist in spinal surgery based in Toulouse, is a leading figure in France, renowned for his expertise in minimally invasive techniques and his patient-centered approach focused on preserving mobility.
gilles.dubois@franchir.eu
In 2022, Erik Boulard’s life changed dramatically after suffering a stroke. While receiving care at an excellent neuroclinic in Montreal, he encountered a dual reality. On one hand, he experienced top-tier medical and human expertise. On the other, he personally witnessed the system’s challenges: systemic delays that prolonged suffering and limited access to advanced technologies he knew were available in Europe. This experience was a revelation. He refused to accept that patients should suffer for months to receive care. Collaborating with his local partner, he envisioned a solution: a secure and compassionate bridge between French medical excellence and Canadian patients.
FRANCHIR was born from this vision: to offer swift access to exceptional care through a fully managed and uncertainty-free process.
Dr. Dubois is one of the pioneers who transformed spine surgery in France. In the 1990s, he was the first surgeon to implant a lumbar disc prosthesis in France. While this revolutionary technology, developed in Germany under the name ‘Charité’ prosthesis, was still in its infancy, he recognized its immense potential for patients who would otherwise have been condemned to spinal fusion (arthrodesis). His boldness and vision made it possible to offer a mobility-preserving alternative to thousands of patients and paved the way for the adoption of this technique throughout France.
It is this mindset of innovation and unwavering commitment to patient well-being that form the foundation of the medical expertise that FRANCHIR puts at your disposal.
Our Mission: Excellence in Spine Surgery France
Our mission at FRANCHIR is to enable patients worldwide to quickly and confidently access the most suitable spine surgery in France for their specific condition. We connect you directly to France’s leading neurosurgeons and spine specialists, who master the most advanced techniques in spinal care.
Beyond providing access to world-class spine surgery, our mission is to build a lasting relationship of trust with each patient. Leveraging our in-depth knowledge of the French medical ecosystem for spine surgery, we guarantee complete
transparency and personalized support tailored to your unique needs.
We are the bridge between you and French spine surgery excellence, offering you the solution you deserve for your spinal health through our network of premier spine surgery centers in France.
FAQ - Spine Surgery in France Franchir
How do I know if my pain requires surgery?
The indication for back surgery depends on several factors that our specialists evaluate during your in-depth consultation.
Surgical evaluation criteria: • Pain intensity and persistence despite conservative treatments • Presence of neurological deficits (weakness, numbness) • Significant impact on your quality of life and activities • Imaging results showing nerve compression or instability
What exams are needed before surgery?
The pre-operative assessment for back surgery includes several essential exams that we coordinate between Canada and France to optimize your care.
Essential imaging tests: • Recent MRI (less than 6 months) of the affected area • CT scan with 3D reconstructions if needed • Dynamic X-rays to assess instability • Myelogram CT in complex cases
How can I get my case evaluated?
Your journey begins with a free at our local partner office with our clinical nurse specialist in spinal pathologies. This healthcare professional, specifically trained in both French and Canadian protocols, performs a complete evaluation of your situation.
Back pain: what to do first?
When experiencing back pain, the first step is to evaluate the intensity and characteristics of your pain. If the pain is manageable and recent (less than 48 hours), you can apply cold for the first 24 hours, then heat, while maintaining light activity.
Average recovery times:
Minimally invasive surgery: 2-4 weeks for light activities • Simple fusion: 6-8 weeks for gradual recovery • Complex interventions: 3-6 months for complete recovery
