Autologous platelet rich plasma for regeneration of tendon injuries in horses

Abstract

Digital flexor tendon injuries are the most common cause of early retirement and economic loss in the equine industry due to the poor healing tendency of the tendons. This study was conducted to improve the quality of tendon healing by using Autologous Platelet Rich Plasma incorporated collagen scaffold. Using ultrasound guidance, autologous Platelet Rich Plasma with and without collagen scaffold was engrafted intra-lesionally into 12 affected digital flexor tendons of 11 horses and healing was assessed periodically. Lameness score decreased in all the horses and the therapeutic outcome of intra-lesional engraftment of Autologous Platelet Rich Plasma with collagen scaffold was found to be superior in terms of clinical outcome, ultrasonographic and biochemical assessment. Ultrasonography served as an effective tool for diagnosis and for evaluation of healing tendon injuries.