Biologicals
The use of biological products to stimulate the body to repair itself
These products are typically harvested from the patient and concentrated, enhancing their effect's.
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What are some of the Biological Products?
PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma)
Platelets stimulate growth and healing. Platelets are found in blood and can be concentrated in a laboratoryPRP can be injected into tendon and ligament injuries to promote healing
IRAP (Interleukin-1 Receptor Antagonist Protein)
IRAP is a naturally occurring anti-inflammatory chemical that is harvested from your horse’s bloodIRAP can be injected into joints to reduce inflammation in cases of osteoarthritis. This can be particularly important for young horses, early in their career to reduce long term arthritic changes and limiting their life as an equine athlete.
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Prostride
Pro-Stride Autologous Protein Solution (APS) is a proprietary dual-device system whose output produces a concentrated solution of cells, platelets, growth factors, and anti-inflammatory proteins. Pro-Stride combines the positive effects of use in damaged tissue (such as ligaments and tendons) and synovial structures (such as joints, tendons sheaths and bursas).
Stem cells
Stem cells can divide into different cell types and secrete growth factors for healing. Some of the secretions produced by stem cells are thought to be anti-inflammatory. Stem cells can be collected from bone marrow (BMAC), fat tissue or purchased ‘off the shelf’. Stem cells can be injected into bone cysts, tendon and ligament injuries, and inflamed joints. Has also been used to treat severe laminitis cases.
Arthramid
While Arthramid is not harvested from the patient, it is considered a biological because of its mechanism of action. Arthramid is used to treat non-infectious causes of joint lameness in animals, including both early and late stage of Osteoarthritis (OA) and Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD). Arthramid treats the underlying causes of joint lameness in animals. The advanced gel acts as a “bio-scaffold” that fully integrates with the joint tissue, reducing pain and strengthening the joint itself.
How can these products help you and your horse?
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Once we have diagnosed your horse with a particular injury, we can decide what regenerative medicine product would most benefit your horse in the rehabilitation phase. Using regenerative medicine products can be less harmful than traditional medications, for example corticosteroids used to manage osteoarthritis.
Some horses cannot be administered corticosteroids because of their underlying metabolism and the chance corticosteroids could trigger a laminitic episode. Horses with Equine Metabolic Syndrome or subclinical/clinical laminitis can benefit from the effects of regenerative medicine, especially when corticosteroids cannot be used.
When we can enhance the healing of an injured tendon, ligament or joint, the higher the chance our equine athlete can resume work.