Stem Cell Therapy
Stem cells are injected directly into injured tissue where they can multiply and differentiate into the cell type of the area. It is also a source of growth factors which help to stimulate healing. It can be used for subchondral bone cysts as well as tendon and ligament injuries. We inject approximately 10 million stem cells that are derived from either the patient’s own bone marrow or from a frozen equine stem cell bank.
Interleukin-1 Receptor Antagonist Protein (IRAP) Therapy
Interleukin-1 (IL-1) is one of the most destructive chemicals produced in joint inflammation and leads to ongoing cartilage damage. It’s antagonist protein (IRAP) is produced naturally by the body and can block IL-1. IRAP therapy aims to get a concentrated sample of the antagonist protein. This is done by taking a small amount of blood from the horse and incubating it to allow the horse’s white cells to produce increased amounts of IRAP. The blood is then centrifuged to concentrate the IRAP. The IRAP rich fluid is then injected into the affected joints to block IL-1, reduce inflammation and potentially allow cartilage regeneration.
Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy
PRP uses the horse’s own blood, which is centrifuged to harvest the portion containing the platelets. This platelet rich plasma also contains high concentrations of growth factors which can stimulate enhanced healing in damaged tissue. PRP can be injected into tendon and ligament injuries, injected into OCD lesions or used topically on wounds.