Evaluation of intra-articular injection of autologous platelet lysate (PL) in horses with osteoarthritis of the distal interphalangeal joint.
Title | Evaluation of intra-articular injection of autologous platelet lysate (PL) in horses with osteoarthritis of the distal interphalangeal joint. |
Publication Type | Journal Article |
Year of Publication | 2016 |
Authors | Tyrnenopoulou, P., Diakakis N., Karayannopoulou M., Savvas I., & Koliakos G. |
Journal | Vet Q |
Volume | 36 |
Issue | 2 |
Pagination | 56-62 |
Date Published | 2016 Jun |
ISSN | 1875-5941 |
Keywords | Animals, Blood Platelets, Carpal Joints, Forelimb, Horse Diseases, Horses, Injections, Intra-Articular, Male, Osteoarthritis |
Abstract | BACKGROUND: Regenerative medicine has become one of the most promising therapies of equine osteoarthritis. Platelet lysate (PL) is rich in bioactive proteins and growth factors that play a crucial role in tissue healing.OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of intra-articularly injected autologous PL in equine athletes with naturally occurring osteoarthritis.ANIMALS AND METHODS: Fifteen warmblood geldings aged 8-19 years with osteoarthritis of the distal interphalangeal joint were included in this study. They were randomly divided into two groups; 10 horses received intra-articular injections of PL and 5 of normal saline (controls). Before treatment, platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) levels in basal plasma and prepared PL were estimated. Each joint was injected twice within a three-week period. Lameness was evaluated using the American Association of Equine Practitioners grading system, before treatment and 10 days after each intra-articular injection. Horses were examined fortnightly for one year. Radiographic examination was performed six months post-treatment. The generalized estimating equation test was used for statistical analysis.RESULTS: Acceptable levels of PDGF were detected in PLs (mean ± SD: 258.0 ± 52.3 pg/ml). The majority of horses (9/10) responded positively to PL treatment presenting lower lameness grades (p < 0.0005) compared to controls 10 days after the second injection, and returned to normal athletic activity. Radiographs revealed no changes in osteoarthritis lesions six months after treatment. One year post-injections, however, all horses relapsed to their initial degree of lameness.CONCLUSION: Intra-articularly injected autologous PL is an efficient method for temporarily managing osteoarthritis of the distal interphalangeal joint in athletic horses. |
DOI | 10.1080/01652176.2016.1141257 |
Alternate Journal | Vet Q |
PubMed ID | 26828234 |